In my writing about the Olympus HLD-9 grip, I briefly mentioned the Olympus E-M1X camera for a specific reason. Despite going against the principles of the micro 4/3 system, which emphasize low weight, compactness, and portability, there were certain aspects that drew my interest towards this camera. One factor was my background as an SLR/DSLR photographer, accustomed to using sturdy, large, and heavy cameras. These characteristics offered benefits such as better balance when paired with long telephoto lenses.
Additionally, I was seeking a replacement for my E-M1 Mark II and had observed that the autofocus response of the new E-M1 Mark III performed exceptionally well when capturing birds in flight, as well as aircraft. Consequently, the most logical choice seemed to be acquiring a second Mark III or the new OM System OM-1. However, the Mark III was no longer available new in my location, and the second-hand prices remained relatively high. Also, due to an attractive deal on the Olympus shop, I obtained the Mark III at a lower cost than its current second-hand market value, so it would be weird to pay more for a second hand copy. This ruled out the Mark III as a possible choice for me.
Another contributing factor was an article by Thomas Stirr titled “OM-1 Upgrade Decision,” which influenced my decision-making process against the OM-1. Everything I read about the OM-1 elsewhere is good, but it still is relatively expensive. Thomas also praised the E-M1X’s bird-taking capabilities. Consequently, I purchased a second-hand Olympus E-M1X from Asgoodasnew in Frankfurt an der Oder through eBay for just over €800, a bargain ? The camera was listed as Olympus OM-D E-M1X nero A++ (like new), although it lacked information about the shutter count and original photos. Thus, it was a bit of a leap of faith. Nonetheless, I anticipated that the A++ rating and “like new” description should be satisfactory, hoping that the camera’s actuations did not exceed +300,000. The delivery is expected tomorrow, June 21, and I plan to share an unboxing and initial impression in my next post.
The photo gallery of Open Source Photography, Olympus micro 4/3 system, Vintage Lens Photograpy, Film Simulation, PictureFX, HDR – Photographer : Marc R.
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Good luck with your new M1X, of which I Shoot with two of them. Because I photograph mostly Birds and other Wildlife, I prefer the M1X and it’s Ergonomics with longer and heavy lens. Using the new 150-600 F-5/6.3 and or the 300 F-4, with either the 1.4 or 2.0 Extenders and the benefits of staying with the M1X is readily apparent!
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Hi Gregory,
Thanks for your comment! It’s actually an older article, and I’ve since added the new OM-1 Mark II to my gear. I completely agree with you about the M1X’s ergonomics—especially with heavier lenses like the 150-600mm. However, when it comes to bird and wildlife recognition, the OM-1 Mark II is a big step forward. One key advantage is that you no longer need to stay in tracking mode for subject recognition; it works seamlessly in AF-S as well—and it’s incredibly fast. Honestly, for bird and wildlife photography, it’s hard to beat right now.
That said, I still enjoy using the M1X. These days, I mostly use it differently, like for occasional videos, portrait and architecture. It remains a fantastic camera.
Thanks again for your comment! Wishing you a great 2025, and I hope to see you soon on our OSP page soon.
Best,
Marc
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