Well, here's my little effort. About $10 in parts and a little over an hour tinkering.

I cannot believe just how effective this is. I used to have trouble focusing (even with the LCD) - with this finder, I don't even use the peaking function anymore.

I think Sony may have missed the boat on this one. If they produced a companion LCD finder unit for the EX1, it would be the absolutely must-have accessory for all EX1 owners. It just makes life so much easier.

I removed the stock viewfinder housing (which gets it out of the way) and made a little custom cover for the VF LCD, (a bit of Gaff tape would also do the job but may leave a residue), and hey presto! My EX1 operates like a 'real' camera! Everything is light weight plastic and so is strong - but at the same time doesn't put undue stress on the LCD hinge.

Parts list:

2x sealable (tupperware-type) food containers - size to fit LCD.
Small piece of light weight plastic tubing
Pair of (round style) +3.5 magnifying glasses
Modeler's plastic sheet (ice cream container lid would do)
Glue
Black elastic
Black Velcro
Camera light seal foam
Matt Black Spray paint.
EX1 VF Eyecup

In shoulder mount, the finder sits snug up against the eye - no glare or shade or visibility issues.

I'm sure Hoodman's version (if it ever gets here) will be shmicker looking and more refined - but hell, 10 bucks and an hour's work and I can shoot with no focusing hassles at all. I'm a happy boy!

Thanks to those that built versions before me (Serena et al), I absolutely referenced your knowledge and designs in building mine.

Standing on the shoulders of giants....

Nice job and it looks the part!

I definately think a viewfinder could be made that does the job as well as the EX-3's and look just as good..

David, well done.

David.

This looks great. Is there any way you could go through this step by step? Did you use reading glasses and remove them from the rims? Where did you put them?

Thanks.

Yes please- a step by step would be much appreciated. I am itching to make one too.