15/03/2026 7:01 am
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Which leather half-case and matching strap setup are you guys using for the M11 that actually allows for easy battery and SD card access without taking the whole thing apart? I finally made the jump from my trusty M10-R last week and honestly the missing baseplate is throwing me for a loop even though I love the new sensor. I've been shooting M-mount glass for years and I'm super picky about the feel of the camera in my hand but this new bottom design means all my old Luigi cases are basically paperweights now. I'm just so pumped to get shooting with this 60MP beast but I need to protect the finish before I do anything stupid.
I am looking for something really high-end because I'm heading out to Japan for a two-week street session in about three weeks and I really want the kit to be ready to go. My budget is probably around 500 or 600 bucks for the whole set. I've been eyeing the Arte di Mano stuff because their craftsmanship is usually insane but I’m worried about the lead time coming from Korea if they have to custom make it. Has anyone here tried the Oberwerth cases with the flip-down bottom? It seems smart but I'm worried it adds too much bulk to the profile and I really want to keep it slim for my 35mm Summicron. I dont want it to feel like a chunky DSLR or anything.
Also what are we doing for straps these days? I've always been a neck strap guy but I'm considering a leather wrist strap this time around since I'll be in crowded areas in Tokyo and I don't want the camera swinging around and hitting people or poles. I saw some stuff from Vi Vante that looked interesting but maybe a bit too flashy for me. I need something that patinas well over time and actually feels soft on the skin. A few things I am looking for:
- Quick access to the battery and SD slot
- Protection for the back screen without blocking the buttons
- High quality leather that wont smell weird after a week of humidity in the city
- Clearance for the USB-C port for on-the-go charging
I'm planning on charging via power bank while I'm on the train so that's a total dealbreaker if I have to unscrew the case every time the battery hits 20 percent. Just super excited to get this thing out in the field but the accessory hunt is stressing me out way more than it should... what are you guys actually using on your rigs?
3 Answers
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15/03/2026 8:05 am
@Reply #1 - good point! I actually tried that Oberwerth route at first because everyone raves about that bottom flap, but honestly... I was kinda disappointed. The leather felt way too stiff and the magnet on the door kept popping open when I bumped it against my hip on the subway. Not ideal when youre already paranoid about dropping a $9k setup. I had a similar panic before my trip last year. I really wanted the Arte di Mano Minerva Box Half Case for M11 but that 6-week lead time just killed it. I ended up grabing the Lim's Design Italian Leather Half Case for Leica M11 instead. It is way cheaper than custom stuff but has a solid aluminum base that feels way more secure than just leather, and the USB-C cutout is wide enough for thick cables. For the strap, try a Tap & Dye Legacy Leather Wrist Strap. Its thick and makes me feel way safer in crowded trains tho.
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15/03/2026 8:35 am
To add to the point above: we've discussed everything from custom boutique leather to those tricky magnetic flaps. In my experience, simple is better for travel safety. I've tried many setups and mid-range gear is often more rugged.
- TP Original Leather Half Case for Leica M11 is sturdy, has the battery door, and leaves you extra money for the trip.
- Gordys Camera Straps Leather Wrist Strap is bulletproof. It wont fail you in a crowded Tokyo station.
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15/03/2026 7:01 am
I totally get the stress but the M11 is seriously amazing! I was so worried about scratching mine up too so I went with these:
- Oberwerth Half Case for Leica M11 with Battery Access - it is fantastic because the bottom flips open for the SD card and charging. It feels so secure!
- Rock n Roll Straps M-Leica Classic Leather Wrist Strap - the leather is top notch and it stays on your wrist perfectly. You are gonna love it!
