How Have Aki-Asahi's Coverings Been Holding Up?

[Stu W]

Well, it's been about a year now since I recovered my 2 M3's with Aki-Asahi's coverings in Leica Screwmount emboss pattern. I had only a slight problem installing them as it seems the lug placement on the bodies aren't exactly consistent. Mine are dog ears and if you look at the 2 bodies they are obviously in slightly different places. Anyway, the coverings seem to have lost some of that new vinyl look, seem to feel a little harder and you could easily pass them off as vulcanite. The only peeling problem I have is the edges of the film doors. Updates to come annually. Stu

[AusDLK]

I bought the magenta "snake" cover.

It looks great on my M3.

However it is gradually losing its color as I handle and use the camera. in the areas where my fingers hold the camera.

This is disappointing.

[RML]

Everyone should use the Japanesque Gold vynil cover ( http://www.rangefinderforum.com/phot...16655&cat=4934 ).

[Kyle]

Mine has been holding up just fine (I have dark brown lizard emboss on my M2). For $19 shipped and practically effortless installation, I think I can live with a little color fading after extended use. I haven't noticed any problems with fading, however, probably due to the fact that I use my M2 only about 25% of the time, and shoot with the ZI the rest.

Can't beat Aki for his prices and service!