Disassembling the Olympus Pen Original "Sanko Pen"
The earliest production models of the original Olympus Pen are referred to as the "Sanko Pen."
The name doesn't come from playing cards, but rather from being manufactured by Sanko Trading Company.
How to Identify a Sanko Pen
First, check the strap mount. If the strap is attached to only one side, it might be a Sanko Pen. Next, examine the shutter button. If the grooves, which are typically vertical, are horizontal, you're closer to confirming it.
Additionally, check the "Φ" mark. If the lines do not pass through but instead resemble a map symbol for an orchard, you’ve identified a Sanko Pen.
For further confirmation, inspect the back cover. Below the "OLYMPUS" mark, there should be a "MADE IN JAPAN" engraving. In some cases, these parts might have been swapped out, so always double-check.
For comparison, here’s an image of a standard original Olympus Pen.
Disassembling the Top Cover
The disassembly process is very similar to that of the Olympus Pen S. Key differences compared to the Pen EE series include:
- Removing the hot shoe cover.
- The screw in the center of the film counter is standard-threaded.
- The strap mount is screwed in place.
Once all necessary parts are removed, pull the top cover upward. Be sure to collect any washers or other small parts that may be stacked on the counter mechanism.
Cleaning the Viewfinder
Flip the top cover over and remove the cover over the viewfinder. While this part later became paper in the Pen S, it’s made of metal in this earlier model.
Peel off the light-shielding paper and clean the interior of the viewfinder. The front glass part is easier to remove compared to later models like the Pen S.
Cleaning the Lens
Turn the nameplate portion inside the lens to remove it. The lens is often cloudy. Be cautious, as the aperture blades can come loose in this state.