The Pentax LX was specifically designed for environmental extremes. For example, the motor wind battery case can be detached from the mechanics (like the MX) and a cord used so that you can keep the battery warm in your pocket. It was designed with the best seals of any camera ever made, save underwater designs. It was selected by National Geographic as their choice for 35 mm format for an expedition to the Antarctica. (Unfortunately, the expedition was canceled.) I have used one of my LXs for extended durations down to -30F in Quebec with no problems! It can be operated using fully manual shutter. Before you bring the camera indoors, place it in a Ziploc bag until it warms up, and you won't be plagued with condensation. FYI, the light meter worked fine. I just had to make the usual corrections for snow.
Regards, Bob... From: "Shel Belinkoff" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > If you want a camera that meets your specific requirements, you'll have to > get one without a built-in light meter. With Pentax, that puts you back > forty years or so, to pre Spotmatic days. Nikons are a good choice as they > have models that were meterless into the seventies, I believe. Meters were > optional, or could be added. If you don't mind batteries JUST for the > meter function, then the Pentax MX is a good choice. Small, light, works > fully without batteries (except for meter), takes a full range of Pentax > lenses (earlier bodies can't use many of the newer lenses. The ME series > leaves you with limited shutter speeds. > > Early Leicas are also a good choice, although glass for them can be spendy, > and some of the cameras are bulky. > > You mention nothing of your budget, intended use of the camera, or anything > else, so further suggestions would be difficult. Must you have an SLR? > There are some good rangefinder options out there. > > Shel Belinkoff > > > From: Brett Mckay <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > > > > Which would be the best fully manual SLR be to buy as a backup for use > > in extremely cold temperatures. So I do not want any electronics or > > batteries.
