Leather case repairs
Dec 22, 2021 20:51:39 GMT
on Dec 22, 2021 20:51:39 GMT
Last Edit: Dec 22, 2021 20:53:30 GMT by lumiworx
This isn't really a how-to question, but a way to get a consensus from buyers/users and collectors...
Yet again, I find myself in possession of a vintage camera that came with it's OEM leather case. The case looked to be in a nice condition and complete with both halves shown in the seller's photos -but- once in-hand, the snap section that attaches to the underside on the camera is almost completely severed at the crease, with less than 1mm in width of the leather left intact. The underlying fabric is really the only thing keeping it from falling off. The case is fairly uncommon (in this instance, it's for a late 50's Ricoh 500 rangefinder w/ Triggermatic advance) and since they don't often show up for sale by themselves in usable condition, they can be costly to purchase when they're coming with the camera they're meant for and be in a great or better shape.
I'm fully capable of doing some patching by hand sewing a new leather 'tab' at the creased joint to effect a reasonable repair and to keep the damage in-check, and to cosmetically come to a close match with the original finish and coloring. The question that comes to mind is - are these types of repairs reasonable to do and expect there to be any value to the next owner. And by value, I don't necessarily mean the monetary kind, but the collectable and/or functional value to have a working case that won't fall apart with further handling, or even to keep them usable for active use? I cringe at the thought of using some temporary alternative like Duct Tape or anything equally messy for myself or a future buyer, but I'd rather spend my time and resources on other things if there's little value in rescuing something like this.
Thoughts - ideas - comments ?
Yet again, I find myself in possession of a vintage camera that came with it's OEM leather case. The case looked to be in a nice condition and complete with both halves shown in the seller's photos -but- once in-hand, the snap section that attaches to the underside on the camera is almost completely severed at the crease, with less than 1mm in width of the leather left intact. The underlying fabric is really the only thing keeping it from falling off. The case is fairly uncommon (in this instance, it's for a late 50's Ricoh 500 rangefinder w/ Triggermatic advance) and since they don't often show up for sale by themselves in usable condition, they can be costly to purchase when they're coming with the camera they're meant for and be in a great or better shape.
I'm fully capable of doing some patching by hand sewing a new leather 'tab' at the creased joint to effect a reasonable repair and to keep the damage in-check, and to cosmetically come to a close match with the original finish and coloring. The question that comes to mind is - are these types of repairs reasonable to do and expect there to be any value to the next owner. And by value, I don't necessarily mean the monetary kind, but the collectable and/or functional value to have a working case that won't fall apart with further handling, or even to keep them usable for active use? I cringe at the thought of using some temporary alternative like Duct Tape or anything equally messy for myself or a future buyer, but I'd rather spend my time and resources on other things if there's little value in rescuing something like this.
Thoughts - ideas - comments ?
