Jumping in here because I basically went through this exact same panic before my last trip. If you want something that hits that sweet spot of actually fitting without breaking the bank, maybe check out the Kaza Deluxe Leica M3 Half Case Set. I use one on my M2 and it is super solid. The leather is thick and the fit is really snug, unlike those cheap generic ones. Shipping from HK might be tight for your three-week window tho, so keep that in mind. Another decent option is the Vi Vante Leica M Half Case since you can usually find them stocked by US retailers. They are a bit more modern looking with the stitching, but the fit is tight with zero wobble. It feels way more premium than the Amazon junk... staining that silver chrome sounds like a nightmare honestly. Just make sure whatever you get has a soft lining so it treats the metal right. Good luck with the Japan trip!

Man, skip that cheap Amazon junk, it is never worth it for a Leica! Since you are in Seattle and on a deadline, you really gotta look at Artisan and Artist. I have used their gear for a decade and it fits like a glove every single time. Honestly, the Artisan & Artist LMB-M3 Leather Half Case is exactly what you need for that M3. It does not wobble and the leather quality is just fantastic! Luigi is beautiful but honestly way too expensive and shipping takes forever. If you order from a big US shop like Leica Store Miami or B&H you will have it in days. I have taken my M3 to Japan three times now and that A&A case saved it from so many bumps on the subway... dont go naked, just get something real! You spent the money on the camera, treat it right. You wont regret it!

I've honestly been pretty let down by most of the big names lately. I spent a fortune on a custom Luigi case years ago and the fit was just... mushy? It never felt like it was actually part of the camera, and the leather stretched out way too fast. Plus, waiting for overseas shipping when you have a flight in three weeks is just asking for a panic attack. I had a similar issue with dye rubbing off on my hands during a humid shoot in New Orleans once. Its the worst feeling seeing that black gunk on your M3's silver chrome, and honestly, some of those stains never fully come out of the matte finish. If you want something that actually stays put and doesnt feel like a cheap sock, look at Oberwerth Half Case for Leica M3 Black Leather. They are pricey but the internal frame is reinforced so it doesnt warp or wobble like the cheaper stuff. I usually get mine from B&H since they have a warehouse on the east coast and ship fast to Seattle. One thing to watch out for tho: make sure whatever you buy has a soft inner lining, like microfiber or high-quality suede. Some of these boutique cases are just raw leather on the inside and that grit will eat through your vulcanite over time. Quick tip: avoid any case that uses metal snaps on the interior. Ive seen too many M3s with circular scratches around the lugs because of that design flaw. Stick to the ones that use a screw-in tripod mount attachment to stay steady.