Pentax Ricoh Imaging Company Ltd. announced the launch of the Pentax K-01 interchangeable-lens digital camera in conjunction with the world’s thinnest interchangeable lens - the smc Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 XS unifocal. This latest addition to the popular Pentax K series and the new lens were both designed in partnership with world renowned designer, Marc Newson.

The Pentax K-01 features 16.28 megapixels, high-speed burst shooting, an extra-wide sensitivity range with a top sensitivity of ISO 25600 and Full HD video recording.

The camera also features the reliable and ever-popular PENTAX K lens mount, so users can make effective use of their entire range of PENTAX lenses, including those produced for film-format SLR cameras.

The Pentax K-01 is a creative and bold step in camera design and has been developed with Newson’s three design themes in mind — Timeless, Trusty and Touchable, whilst still maintaining the full array of advanced functions and user-friendly features that you would expect from a digital interchangeable lens camera.

Pentax Ricoh Imaging Company has a strong history of innovation – it was the first to develop colour digital SLRs and front customizable compacts, as well as pioneering concept models created in collaboration with various designers and artists.

Newson’s K-01 is a modern digital camera with a contemporary yet timeless design. The body consists of clean and simple lines creating an elegant graphical composition whilst preserving all the functions of a professional camera. Original-design push buttons and control levers are efficiently laid out across the body, while bright colours are used on two key buttons for instant recognition: red for the video recording button, and green for the functional green button. The combination of machined aluminium and natural rubber provide the user with a tactile and durable piece of technology. The mode dial and the power switch are made of a high-quality aluminium alloy, while the memory card slot and connectors on the comfortable, easy-to-hold grip are covered with protective rubber.

Newson’s original design concept is evident in all elements of the K-01, including the product logo, the camera strap and even on the start-up screen when the K-01 is turned on.