Care of old leather camera case

[rectangularimage]

The case that came with my Konica III is in surprisingly good condition for being 50+ years old. Any tips for keeping that way? Should I wipe it down with a damp rag? Water or alcohol? I can't see any fungus or mildew. Maybe do nothing is the right answer.

I know I shouldn't store the camera in the case but I like using it installed in the bottom half of the case (easier to grip), so it will spend some time in there.

[Jockos]

I'd give it a rub with high quality mink oil, let it sit overnight and then wipe off the excess. It will become slightly darker, unless it's black.

[Roger Hicks]

Connolly Hide Food.

Cheers,

R..

[L David Tomei]

Search for British Museum Leather Dressing. It is used to preserve old leather. The formula should be easy to find on Google.

[BobYIL]

For all leathers and vulcanites (although they have nothing to do with leather) I use neatsfoot oil. A reliable formula since long decades.

[icebear]

Most importantly keep it in a well ventilated area/place.
Don't expose it to direct sunlight (other than in use).
NEVER ever wrap it in a plastic bag - you could watch the fungus growing.

[L David Tomei]

It is very important to suppress fungal growth on old leather cases and covers, that's why the Brit Museum dressing adds a small amount of cedar oil. I have used pure bees wax which also has excellent fungus suppression activity. See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British...ather_dressing.