I discovered a company on Instagram that has created a screw dot, similar to what Leica uses for their “P” versions, machined from brass. Many Leica users tape over their cameras’ red dots to make them less conspicuous, especially when traveling. However, over time, tape adhesive can leave a messy residue on the red dot and camera paint.
Leicascrew.com has solved this problem by machining a screw dot that matches the camera's paint. Not only does it look great, but it also makes it much easier to remove for vertical rangefinder alignment. I've posted some images showing my Leica M11 with the regular red dot and with the screw dot replacement.
I think it looks fantastic and stays flush to the camera body.
Removing the red dot to use the screw dot might seem daunting, but the process is quick and easy. Here’s what I did:
Materials Needed
Hair dryer or heat gun
Two toothpicks or similar small sticks (I used very thin Q-Tips)
Pure isopropyl alcohol
Microfiber cloth
Steps
Apply Isopropyl Alcohol:
Use a cotton swab to apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol around the edges of the red dot. The alcohol will help break down the adhesive. Let it sit for about 2-3 minutes to allow it to penetrate the adhesive.
Heat the Red Dot:
Use a hair dryer or heat gun on a low setting to gently warm the red dot. Hold the dryer about 6-8 inches away and move it in a circular motion for about 1-2 minutes. The heat will further soften the adhesive.
Prepare the Sticks:
Take two toothpicks or similar small sticks that are sturdy enough to apply a bit of pressure but gentle enough not to scratch the surface.
Position the Sticks:
Place the tips of the sticks on opposite sides of the Leica logo on the red dot. Ensure they are positioned securely.
Turn the Red Dot:
Apply gentle, steady pressure to the sticks, turning them in opposite directions. This should help break the adhesive bond and rotate the red dot slightly.
After rotating the dot a few turns, it comes off without any damage to either the dot or the camera.
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The screw dot comes with three self-adhesive pads, which can be used to secure the new dot to the camera.
The entire process took me about 5 minutes from start to finish. Very easy. LeicaScrew mentioned that he developed black, silver, and "pure brass" screw dots to match any Leica M model, whether digital or film. It even works for the Q series.
I had considered doing this myself in the past, and I'm glad it's now being done professionally. I highly recommend these screw dots.
Yes my question was about the Leica screw not the ags solution, but reading more it sounds like they’re both adhesive stick on things. The price does seem quite high, though I admit, I prefer the look.
Desmolicious wrote:
From ags' website:
All dots come with adhesive pre-applied to the back.
Adamwilbert wrote:
Yes my question was about the Leica screw not the ags solution, but reading more it sounds like they’re both adhesive stick on things. The price does seem quite high, though I admit, I prefer the look.
The Leica screw I tried is made of brass and attaches to the Leica M using a double-sided adhesive, just like the Leica red dot.
Adamwilbert wrote:
Thanks for the info, Fred. It looks nice!
Yes, I liked it too, and it’s good to know there are two sources now. I don’t think Leica can stop this type of product since it doesn’t have the Leica logo on it.
From what I’ve been told, the LeicaScrew site’s painting process is quite complex, involving sandblasting, Cerakote, and a clear coat, all baked at 350 degrees, which may increase the paint’s longevity. I’m not sure about the other site’s paint process.
I really don’t understand this concept of hiding the make of the camera when one is traveling. If someone leaves their camera out of their sight at any touristy location, it will be gone period whether it has a red dot or not. Thieves are opportunists and will grab anything they can.
Now if it’s the look you are after…then I have not much to say about that. 🙁
chez wrote:
I really don’t understand this concept of hiding the make of the camera when one is traveling. If someone leaves their camera out of their sight at any touristy location, it will be gone period whether it has a red dot or not. Thieves are opportunists and will grab anything they can.
Now if it’s the look you are after…then I have not much to say about that. 🙁
I don't fully agree here from own experience in this matter: several years ago when taking photos with my Leica M6 in Europe, I was approached twice at different locations. The photography-interested bystanders recognized my camera as a Leica due to its red dot. Even both times I had friendly conversations, I felt a bit uncomfortable in this situation where I normally try to blend in and avoid conversations to focus on taking photos instead. I have since taped my red Leica dots with gaffer tape and fully avoided these kind of situations. Without red Leica dot - I also taped the Leica brand name -, the camera looks more like a standard Fuji MLC. To add to this experience, my Leica M 246 monochrome without any red dot nor Leica name has so far never attracted any attention either.
Regarding thievery, it is very dependent on the location. In areas with many tourists, specialized thieves likely know well about differences in camera size and shapes to quickly determine the value. The red dot for sure will be a magnet in this kind of scenario.
