viewfinder magnifier - leica brand vs others

[amoz]

I am wondering whether anyone has been using the 49$ 1.25 magnifiers offered by HKSupplies on ebay. I know the Leica branded ones look better, but if their quality is the same I think I might want to try out the cheaper one. (I am hoping to be able to get the 75 APO by summertime, and buying this accesoire now would "prohibit" me to get back on that decision --since I obviously don't need it for my 35/2 😎 ).

 

[furcafe]

I have 1 of those magnifiers & it works fine; optical & build quality seems to be very good. I use it mainly on the M8 when using the Noctilux. I can't provide a comparison w/the "official" Leica product, though, as I've never used/owned 1.

I am wondering whether anyone has been using the 49$ 1.25 magnifiers offered by HKSupplies on ebay. I know the Leica branded ones look better, but if their quality is the same I think I might want to try out the cheaper one. (I am hoping to be able to get the 75 APO by summertime, and buying this accesoire now would "prohibit" me to get back on that decision --since I obviously don't need it for my 35/2 😎 ).

 

[naos]

I just placed an order with them an hour ago for 1.25x. I've read previous posts here at RF that it's defiantly worth the money. The new ones even come with a thread for diopters.

I originally had the Leica brand, but sold it used for $325 out here in Korea. The Leica 1.25x is great, but not at the prices most people are asking for these days.

 

[KEH]

I use the HKSupplies magnifier with 50mm and longer lenses on the M8 and have been very happy - but cannot make a comparison with Leica. Well made, very good optically.

Cheers,
Kirk

 

[foto_fool]

I asked ferider about the HK Supplies magnifier - he has used both and says the HKS is larger than the Leica, but also good quality. This was enough to convince me to order one. HKS was a pleasure to deal with, the magnifier came quickly and works great. Right now I'm using it on my Hexar RF (with a Megaperls adapter) with the ZM 50 Sonnar and like it just fine. The VF mag on the Hexar goes to 0.75. I am shooting a 35mm on the M6 right now, but when I mount the 75mm Summilux on that body the 0.9 mag will be appreciated.

 

[ferider]

I bought the Leica version for a good price, when the HK version was
not on the market yet. Optically, I would say they are equivalent.

The Leica one is a bit smaller, and you can attach it via a little chain
to the strap lug - this is pretty much the only difference I see.

Roland.

 

[amoz]

Thanks for all the prompt replies! That sort of settles the deal then, I will go for the HKSupplies' one.