I'm looking for a fixed lens rf with a bright and contrasty VF, I just broke my GSN, and looking for something with as fast or faster lens than that (f/1.7).
Olympus 35 RD. 40mm, f/1.7. Much smaller than GSN, almost pocketable. Operates shutter preferred or manually. VF is bright when cleaned properly. The lens is IMHO even better than GSN's. Weak point is the shutter that needs to be cleaned every 5 to 10 years. Very clever automatic flash mode too.
The Retina IIC and IIIC (big "C" models) have excellent viewfinders, as does the Retina IIIS.
As well, I would include the Konica III, possibly the Retina IIa, the Zeiss Ikon Contessa (folding and rigid with the rigid being slight better), the Olympus 35 RC, perhaps the Rollei XF 35 and maybe the Yashica Electro 35.
The Retina IIC and IIIC (big "C" models) have excellent viewfinders, as does the Retina IIIS.
As well, I would include the Konica III, possibly the Retina IIa, the Zeiss Ikon Contessa (folding and rigid with the rigid being slight better), the Olympus 35 RC, perhaps the Rollei XF 35 and maybe the Yashica Electro 35.
I have a Retina IIa and a Zeiss Ikon Contessa. I do not wish to cast aspersions on these cameras because I'm very fond of them, but the viewfinders on these cameras are not really all that great to use.
The viewfinder on my Canonet QL19 is a far better than that on my Retina or Contessa. Cannot say anything for the other cameras mentioned as I've never used them.