What leather half cases are you guys actually using for the M11 that dont block the battery door or the USB-C port? I finally pulled the trigger on a black paint M11 after shooting with an M240 for like seven years and Im honestly so stoked to finally have that high-res sensor but man, the new baseplate design is throwing me for a loop since I've always been used to the old school removable bottom.
Usually I just grab a cheap protector but since I spent so much on the body I want something premium that actually fits right and protects the finish from my wedding ring. Ive been looking at the Arte di Mano stuff because their fit is usually 10/10 but Ive heard mixed things about how the leather flap for the battery holds up over time. I do a lot of street stuff and I'm constantly plugging in to offload photos to my iPad while I'm on the train or at a cafe, so I need that port access to be totally seamless.
I have a big trip to Tokyo coming up in three weeks so I need to order something that ships fast or is in stock somewhere in the US right now. Budget is around $350 max. Does anyone have experience with the Oberwerth cases or maybe something smaller? I just dont want it to add too much bulk to the grip because my hands aren't exactly huge. Just want that classic look without losing the functionality of the new bottom design...
Ive used a bunch of these and the Leica M11 Leather Half Case Black 24028 is a decent option if you need it fast. The USB-C cutout is exact, tho it adds some noticeable bulk. If you want something slimmer, the Oberwerth Half Case for Leica M11 is better for smaller hands... just depends if you want the official look or a tighter fit. Leather wont block the port on either.
I ended up going with the Lim's Design Leica M11 Half Case with Metal Base and Italian Leather and it works well for street stuff. The metal bottom makes it feel super sturdy and there is zero fussing with flaps to get to the USB-C port or battery. It fits your budget easily and usually ships fast from US-based shops like B&H or Amazon. No complaints here.
I went through the same thing last year. I was so paranoid about the battery door failing on my M11 and scuffing the finish. Here is what I learned from my own setup: