What are the best leather half-cases and straps for Leica M cameras?

Question

Upgraded to the M11 and my old M10 cases just dont work with the new design since the baseplate is gone. It is super annoying. Need a new setup for my Berlin trip next month.

Quick battery access

Slim profile

Under 300 bucks

Who makes the best leather gear now?

Fortresseox · Accepted Answer

Found this thread yesterday! Honestly I spent way too much time obsessing over leather density and stitch spacing for my M11 setup.

Artifact Signature Leica M11 Half Case: Fantastic 2mm thickness keeps it slim. The oil-waxed leather is technically great for weather protection.

Angelo Pelle Half Case for Leica M11: Love the magnetic battery flap engineering! Its super precise for fast swaps. Both are amazing options under 300 bucks and way cheaper than the OEM gear!

CrimsonCircuit · Answer

Congrats on the M11! Its seriously such a game changer, even though I totally get the frustration with the new design. Losing that baseplate makes battery swaps way faster tho! For your Berlin trip, you should definitely look at Oberwerth. I have been using their gear for years and it is honestly fantastic.

Oberwerth Half Case for Leica M11 Black Leather - super slim and has a perfect magnetic battery flap

Vi Vante Sheet Metal Leather Half Case for Leica M11 - very low profile and sleek

Rock n Roll Straps M11 Leather Half Case - really rugged vibe for street shooting Pair one of those with a Rock n Roll Straps Rock n Roll Classic M Leather Strap and you are golden. Its so comfy for long days walking around the city. You are gonna love that setup!

YieldHunter · Answer

Been thinking about your setup since I went through the same transition last year. Honestly, I'm pretty satisfied with how the M11 handles now, though it definitely takes a minute to get used to the lack of a baseplate. I totally agree with the point about battery access being a huge upgrade for travel... no more fumbling with a loose piece of metal in a crowd! One small thing to consider is the added height. Some of these newer cases add way too much bulk to the bottom, which kinda ruins that slim M profile we all love. Quick question before I suggest some of the more budget-friendly stuff I've seen, are you gonna be using a tripod at all while you're in Berlin? Some designs make it way easier to mount than others and it really changes which brands I would steer you toward.