Ricoh GR1 dim viewfinder

[Dunn]

So I just purchased a Ricoh GR1 off of eBay because I stupidly sold my GR1v a few years ago and now I really miss it.
Everything seems good on the camera except the viewfinder is super dim. I can't see framelines and can barely see anything else. It seems as if it partly functions though because a few things illuminate fully. Like the the focus indicator on the right shows up but I can't see the one on the left.
I've also read this can go along with the top lcd failing, but so far the lcd seems to be fine, although I haven't loaded any film yet.
Anyone experienced this? Any advice on what to do?
Honestly, I haven't purchased much from eBay but this is my first bad experience considering I asked the seller if it was functioning 100% and he said there should be no issues whatsoever...
Cheers!
Ben

 

[john_s]

A common problem. The ribbon cable linking the display with the motherboard (if that's what you would call it) loses connection: some conductors work and some don't so you get variable bits in the viewfinder missing. I have a GR1v in similar condition. I would send it back to the vendor. Let him have it fixed. To say that "there should be no issues" is misleading.

 

[Dunn]

Yeah, and after I loaded some film I realized the frame counter on the top lcd isn't working properly either. Also, the shutter doesn't fire occasionally. For example I tried to take a photo and it didn't fire until the third attempt.
I messaged him and he is saying that it was fine before he sent it. Ugh... ebay.
This is why I constantly check RFF classifieds. Haha

 

[Dunn]

Does anyone know of a reputable place still repairing Ricoh GR1?