This modification comes from Director of Photography Matt Uhry. He, like other users of Konvas 2M's, became frustrated with the rotatable black matte in the viewfinder. It was yet another moving part to be adjusted and never seemed to be quite correct in terms of its orientation with the 1.33:1 markings on the prism.

So...he took it out and now he's happy! This simple yet effective modification allows the operator to see the entire viewing area and can compose shots using the aspect ratio markings, rather than having to fight with the black matte. I used the instructions Matt posted on the Konvas discussion group, grabbed my digital camera and set about dismantling my viewfinder.

Konvas and tools neede

The patient and the tools required to operate. Very small-tipped screwdrivers are all that is required to dismantle and reassemble your viewfinder.

Small screw 1

Small screw 2

Small screw 3

First, remove the three screws that hold the "C" shaped collar. Watch out! These screws are tiny!

Set Screw

Remove Set Screw

Next, locate the set screw on the ring that rotates the matte. Remove it.

Screws and Collar

Shot of the parts you should have put aside: four screws and the "C" collar

Remove the tube

Viewfinder Mirror

Slowly remove the viewfinder from the collar. On the right is the reverse angle illustrating the mirror in the "dog leg" of the viewfinder.

small set screws

This really bad photo shows that there are several incredibly small set screws holding the magnifier and matte assembly in the finder. All of theses screws must be loosened or completely removed before the matte/magnifier can be slid out of the barrel.

Konvas Viewfinder Complete

The magnifier lens and matte assembly. Lower right is an aluminum ring the simply fits on the viewfinder cylinder.

Remove it

Inside the assembly, you'll notice a small threaded ring holding the matte in place. Unscrew it using a spanner that fits the keys or carefully use a screwdriver.

Konvas Viewfinder Mask and Bearing

Grasp the inside of the matte piece and SLOWLY pull it outward. I emphasize slowly becasue that little ball bearing will shoot out and roll away if you're not careful.

Now, it is a simple matter of reversing the steps and reassembling the viewfinder. While you're in there, you might as well clean the optics...