Re-skinning a Leica Digilux 2 (2020)
22nd June 2020
During the lifetime of my Leica Digilux 2 camera, its synthetic body skin has lifted in places, slightly impairing a secure hold when being operated. There have been many discussions in forums about replacing the original body cover with black leather or even more adventurous colours. In the early days, this work could be done by Leica. Latterly, however, it is only possible via a few independent camera repairers such as cameraleather.com
Some years ago there was a craze for fitting somewhat garish colored leather skins. Some owners replaced their own body covers after purchasing the required kit, but it is quite a skilled job and I am not sure that such kits are still available. It is a very personal decision as to whether it is worth the hassle and expense of shipping your camera, possibly overseas. One owner recounted how he was caught for excessive import duty when the camera re-entered his home country, because the job had not been described as a camera ‘repair’. So it is important to establish the facts before committing yourself to a re-coating operation.
Although I have been tempted to have my Digilux 2 body recovered with a more durable material, I have never gone ahead with it. In some ways, the original cover adds to its life story, despite it rebellious nature of separating from the camera body. It is a personal choice. Unsurprisingly, the images produced by the much-loved Leica Digilux 2 are not influenced by the colour or status of the camera body skin.
Some years ago there was a craze for fitting somewhat garish colored leather skins. Some owners replaced their own body covers after purchasing the required kit, but it is quite a skilled job and I am not sure that such kits are still available. It is a very personal decision as to whether it is worth the hassle and expense of shipping your camera, possibly overseas. One owner recounted how he was caught for excessive import duty when the camera re-entered his home country, because the job had not been described as a camera ‘repair’. So it is important to establish the facts before committing yourself to a re-coating operation.
Although I have been tempted to have my Digilux 2 body recovered with a more durable material, I have never gone ahead with it. In some ways, the original cover adds to its life story, despite it rebellious nature of separating from the camera body. It is a personal choice. Unsurprisingly, the images produced by the much-loved Leica Digilux 2 are not influenced by the colour or status of the camera body skin.