Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2006/08/23

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Subject: [Leica] Re: Waterlogged cameras
From: lrzeitlin at optonline.net (Lawrence Zeitlin)
Date: Wed Aug 23 08:17:07 2006
References: <200608230610.k7N69all016085@server1.waverley.reid.org>

On Aug 23, 2006, at 2:10 AM, lug-request@leica-users.org wrote:

> I have used mine in small to medium sized boats and at the beach.   
> So far water has not fazed them any more than any other camera I  
> have used.  It amazes me haw many people buy Leicas due to their  
> reputation for ruggedness , and then are afraid to take them on  
> trips and out in inclimate weather.  They are made to take this  
> type of use, so go out and use them for crying out loud.  I'd bet  
> Ted would not even think twice about using his Leicas, or any other  
> camera in any type of environment.
>
> Gene
>
>
> -------------- Original message from Tina Manley  
> <images@InfoAve.Net>: --------------
>
>
>> At 09:42 AM 8/21/2006, you wrote:
>> I am a firm believer in Leica products on land but I would hesitate
>>> to take one on the water in any boat smaller than an excursion
>>> steamer. Horses for courses I say.
>>>
>>> Larry Z
>>
>> Leicas continue to work fine after being dropped in a river ;-) Just
>> open up the back and let them dry out by the fire. They'll be fine.
>>
>> Tina
>>
>>
>> Tina Manley, ASMP
>> http://www.tinamanley.com
>>
>> HPI Photos: http://www.leica-gallery.net/tinamanley/folder-5282.html
>>


When Ted was working full time, he undoubted had complete insurance  
coverage on his cameras and could deduct replacement of equipment as  
a cost of doing business. Most of us cannot. Anyway Ted's theory of  
wet camera repair was to drop it over the side and file an insurance  
claim.

Leicas are fine precise cameras but I've taken apart enough of them  
to know that corrosion resistance is not one of their strong points.  
There are too many unsealed openings and plenty of rust prone steel  
parts. Salt spray is particularly harmful. Once tiny granules of salt  
get in the camera, they attract moisture and serve as rust nuclei.  
It's OK to use a Leica at the beach as long as you steer clear of  
bullies that kick sand in your face.. But if you drop it or one of  
the kids buries it, only a good CLA will restore its silky smooth  
action.

I made my original comments in response to the Birdman's request for  
a camera to use in a kayak. Anyone who spends much time in a kayak  
knows that dryness is mostly in your imagination.

Larry Z