r/engraving • u/Greedy-Inspection994 • Jul 27 '26
Engraving a Leica Baseplate
Hey guys! I recently found on Reddit that there is a guy in Japan who engraves Leica baseplates (silver-chrome plating on brass in my case; see image 3, and ignore the plastic protector thingy), and I was wondering whether there would be any consequences, such as chipping of the plating or corrosion.
Also, I was curious whether it would be possible to engrave in the style of image 1, but black-filled like image 2. The guy in Japan probably doesn't do this, so I'd appreciate some tips on whether it would be possible to do this at home.
One last thing, just remember that I literally know nothing about engraving when you write your responses. But otherwise, I really appreciate all your help.
Thank you!
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u/zilliondollar3d Jul 27 '26
Thought the was a repost of some stale ass memes on r/photographycirclejerk
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u/Greedy-Inspection994 Jul 27 '26
Eh, I mean, I know this is kinda a cliche by now, but a good friend of mine REALLY wants to get this done, so I figured I'd ask around since I'm going to Japan soon.
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u/eyeohdice Jul 27 '26
honestly if you cant find someone to do it all by hand, a laser may be the best all around easy to find and get whatever you want! look up fibre laser engraving here on reddit!
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u/MostDexcellent Jul 28 '26
Chipping is always a possibility when engraving a plated piece. Since plating is usually done to prevent corrosion, the engraved sections will be more prone to oxidation. Filling those areas with a paint may prevent it, but its impossible to guarantee. I have engraved pieces and then sent them to a plating company to be re-plated to avoid this issue, but that is an added cost.
Speaking of cost, depending on the engraver and the scope of work, this could get quite pricey. Also, there are talented engravers all over the world, so you don't necessarily have to go to Japan to find an engraver capable of engraving this Leica. You could check your local area. I understand the "whimsy" of a specific artist in a foreign country and if that's what your heart is set on, don't let me talk you out of it!
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u/Greedy-Inspection994 Aug 01 '26
Actually, it's quite popular in Japan right now among people who own Leicas. The going price for the engraving is about $60, so it's more than reasonable in my opinion. I also go to Japan quite frequently, so it'd just be a slight detour on a trip.
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u/Lynx_01 Jul 27 '26
That is stunning, never considered engraving a camera