EVF 2: replacing the rubber eyecup possible?

[Me Leica!]

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I just took possession of an X Vario in very good condition from an auction site. Among the extras that the seller threw in is what looks like an alternative eyecup for the EVF-2 viewfinder. It's marked "Olympus", and the EVF is the Leica version, but to the best of my knowledge the Leica and Olympus EVFs are essentially the same thing.

However, I'm a dunce when it comes to putting things together, and I don't want to risk handling the EVF too roughly. Can I use this Olympus eyecup on the Leica EVF, and if so, how do I go about it? Do I have to remove the current eyecup? It clearly rotates (so you can adjust the diopter), but it doesn't feel like it would come off (although, as I said, I haven't tried too hard yet in case I damage it).

Cheers!

 

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[DaveMo]

Hi there,

Congrats on getting an X-Vario. I sure enjoy using mine as it has a very "analogue" feel to using it.

I am thinking you have an Olympus EP-9 eyecup as the additional one which came with the viewfinder. If it is then the original rubber ring should just "pop" off but it might be tight so bear that in mind. When it is off there is a small slot in the viewfinder diopter adjustment ring which you will need to use to line up the replacement eyecup too. The replacement  should have a line on the attachment ring to line up with slot and then it should just line up and fit. It might take a bit of working with to make it "snug" up and fit but it is an easy replacement and will stay attached.

I have the original instructions for the replacement which I can send to you if need further help.

Dave

[Me Leica!]

15 hours ago, DaveMo said:

Hi there,

Congrats on getting an X-Vario. I sure enjoy using mine as it has a very "analogue" feel to using it.

I am thinking you have an Olympus EP-9 eyecup as the additional one which came with the viewfinder. If it is then the original rubber ring should just "pop" off but it might be tight so bear that in mind. When it is off there is a small slot in the viewfinder diopter adjustment ring which you will need to use to line up the replacement eyecup too. The replacement  should have a line on the attachment ring to line up with slot and then it should just line up and fit. It might take a bit of working with to make it "snug" up and fit but it is an easy replacement and will stay attached.

I have the original instructions for the replacement which I can send to you if need further help.

Dave

Thanks for the reply. I did manage to remove the original and get the Olympus one on after a bit of cursing! Looking forward to using it. This is actually my third X Vario. The first one I sold because I didn't give myself enough time to warm up to it. With the second one I started to "get it", but it got damaged after I fell over while carrying it (100% my own dumb fault). It's a great camera, I completely agree. Perfect example of less is more.

[DaveMo]

Thanks for the update, enjoy your new purchase.

[edwardpychan]

Nice pick-up with the X Vario! I’ve had a similar situation with different EVF accessories, and the Olympus eyecup should work fine on your Leica EVF since they’re pretty much the same. To remove the current eyecup, you’ll need to give it a gentle twist and pull—don’t force it, though, since you don’t want to risk damaging anything. It might take a little wiggling, but once it’s off, the Olympus one should slide right on.