OM Digital Solutions has reintroduced the PEN brand with a new mirrorless camera that combines vintage aesthetics with modern imaging technology, including advanced autofocus, in-body stabilisation, and professional video features, marking a significant evolution for the iconic series after nearly 70 years.
OM Digital Solutions has brought back the PEN name with a new camera that blends retro styling with the company’s current mirrorless technology. The OM System PEN is the first PEN model released under the OM System brand, and it arrives almost 70 years after Olympus launched the original series in 1959. According to OM Digital Solutions, the aim remains the same: compact, approachable cameras that make photography feel less intimidating without stripping away manual control.
The new model takes a rangefinder-style form factor and adds an electronic viewfinder, a swivel screen and IPX1-rated dust and splash resistance, which OM Digital Solutions says is a first for the PEN line. The company has also given it a more substantial control layout than many entry-level cameras, with a top mode dial, front dial, dedicated record button and a power switch that also changes between photo, video and S&Q modes. On the back, however, there is no autofocus joystick, so photographers must use the touchscreen or directional pad to move the focus point.
Inside, the camera uses a 20.4-megapixel Live MOS sensor and TruePic IX processor, a combination that will be familiar to anyone who has used recent OM System bodies. The autofocus system is a 121-point hybrid design, and the body includes in-body stabilisation rated at up to 5.5 stops. OM System also includes subject-detection autofocus, while the display and finder are specified at about 1.04 million dots and 2.36 million dots respectively.
The PEN’s stronger pitch is creative expression. Like the OM-3, it offers Color & Monochrome Profile Control, with a front dial for switching between profile modes and deeper adjustment over saturation, contrast and tonal curves. Monochrome settings also include colour filters to alter the look of skies and other tones. The camera further supports OM System’s computational tools, including High Res Shot, Live ND, Focus Stacking, HDR and Multiple Exposure. For video, it records Cinema 4K at up to 24fps and 4K UHD at up to 30fps, adds OM-Cinema1 and OM-Cinema2 picture modes, and supports vertical video with a tally light for creators.
OM Digital Solutions says the PEN will ship in black and silver from late October, priced at $999.99 body only. A kit with a refreshed M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III lens will cost $1,099.99, while a second bundle adding the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4-5.6 R lens is set at $1,299.99. The camera uses a new BLS-7 battery rated for about 410 shots, and buyers will also receive a free Clever Supply Skinny Wrist Strap for a limited time.
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