I just picked up a copy of the Leica EVF Viewfinder and so far I'd highly recommend it for a number of relatively insignificant reasons. If you like looking down at your camera or shooting with a twin lens reflex then this is definitely for you. It's also good for you if you're a pixel peaker who likes the live view feature, but hate holding the camera away from your face.
The biggest advantage is that it solves the viewfinder issue on wider lenses, giving you a live full frame view on a lens wider than 28mm. I find that the full viewfinder window to the very edge was about a 21mm width, so I didn't really worry about this too much, although it's nice to see the actual image you'll be taking. I find both the pixel peaking and full view of image a big advantage on both my Zeiss Super Wide Angle 21mm f/2.8 Biogon T and also to check my focus wide open on my Leica 50mm 1.4. It takes some getting used to, but overall I'm finding it a fun accessory to use.
Yet another opportunity for Leica to write their name on something (doubling the price) This one might get the black tape treatment.
Below is my best attempt to document the 1.4 megapixel image that the viewfinder provides. The first one's the normal full frame view of a coaster I setup to use as an example for the pixel peeping. It definitely removes the analog feel of shooting with a manual focus rangefinder.
Below you can see the edge of the coaster with a light red line that highlights the area thats in focus. It's more obvious as it moves in and out. I also have it set to 5x magnification rather than 10x.
The disadvantage.....
It slows you down a fair bit and puts the emphasis on tack sharp photos rather than allowing you to manipulate a simple camera in such a technical digital age. It's the worst feeling Leica accessory I've ever felt. The plastic lightweight electronics feel is not normal for a such a pompous luxury high end brand, but that doesn't bother me as long as it doesn't break easily. It also ties up your flash shoe, which means you can't fire a flash or use a pocket wizard without the Leica SCA adaptor which I know is a faux pas for most "Leica aficionados" but for the working photographer is a bit of an issue especially as you'll need one of these for $855 - Multifunctional Handgrip M
You can pickup a viewfinder at B&H for $499 here - Visoflex EVF2 Electronic Accessory Viewfinder for X2 and M Cameras
It should also be noted that the Leica M240 is going up in price in a few days
"Price Increase on Leica M (Typ 240)
Leica Camera has announced that effective September 1, 2014 there will be a price increase on the Leica M (Typ 240) camera in both black and silver.
Currently, both cameras are priced at $6,950. Starting September 1, 2014 both will be priced at $7,250. To purchase a Leica M (Typ 240) at the current price of $6,950 your order must be placed before September 1, 2014."
B&H also have the Leica MP in stock right now!
Ben Hider - Event Photographer based in New York City and Westchester
Here's the Leica blurb...
This electronic viewfinder is available as an optional accessory for the Leica M. With a resolution of 1.4 megapixels and 90° swivel action for capturing images from unusual angles, it displays all significant exposure parameters. Thus it allows precise control of composition particularly in very bright light. Efficient focusing with Leica R-Lenses adapted to the Leica M is also possible.
Ben Hider - Event Photographer based in New York City and Westchester