Just bought an EOS1n on Ebay, for what seemed like a bargain price!
With the PDB-E1 and Command Data Back E1. Just to see what the EOS thing is all about.
Now all I need is a lens...
Turns out it's just a plain old EOS1. But in fantastic condition, and I got a partial refund, meaning it's cost me very little. Found a bargain 'faulty' 50mm f1.4 lens on Ebay, and even though the seller was a dick, that's working fine other than it doesn't switch to MF. Meh. Not bothered. It was super cheap anyway.
First impressions: It feels really nice. Ages since I last handled one. Very good physical ergonomics, fits the hand perhaps a bit nicer than the F4, on a par with the F5. AF seems quick, can't really discern any significant difference with the F4, other than the Nikon seems to focus in two distinct 'phases'; rough focus, then a second 'fine tuning' phase. But the EOS is definitely more plasticky than either Nikon, lots more polycarbonate. Custom function flap is very flimsy. And a lot of functions require button + dial to select/activate. Slower and more fiddly. With the data back, you lose the rear dial, so have to use the AEL button. I've ordered a standard back with the dial, which I imagine would speed things up. That is a big design flaw with the data back imo. Power switch is fiddly, but then it is with both Nikons too. But in a stupid place on the EOS, imo. But then; the MF-23 on the F4 is hideous; an ugly lump that sticks right out and ruins the ergonomics. No idea why it needs to be so bulky. Can't properly get it comfortably to my eye, what with my big nose.
Viewfinder: Nowhere near as nice as the Nikons. Not great for a specs wearer at all. But I do like the match needle exposure display. That's nicer than either Nikons, as it's bigger and clearer. Dioptre adjustment is good.
Other things: No cable release socket. Ok so there isn't one on the F5 either. But the one on the F4 means you don't have to buy a hideously expensive electronic release. Body weight with the PDB-E1 feels similar to the F4s. The F4s does feel significantly more substantial though, just tougher, more metal. Both Nikons feel better built. Both feel like 'more' camera for the money, somehow. The EOS1 feels nicer than any other EOS camera I've ever handled though. Always preferred Nikons for 'feel'.
I'll stick some film through it and have a play. It's nice to own a proper top end pro camera, but as for if I'll keep it or not, I don't know yet. Maybe I'll fall in love with it, who knows?