Contax I paint

[Dralowid]

Maybe someone knows...

Can anyone confirm whether the high gloss black finish on a Contax I is covered by a clear lacquer as part of the original process?
Certainly looks that way...

All advice welcome.

Michael

 

[Dez]

I don't think so. The best way I have found to duplicate the deep lustrous original finish is with nitrocellulose paint. I know that was originally used for Leicas, but I am unsure about the Contaxes.

It still exists, and is used for musical instruments. It is not widely available, but I was able to buy a spray can on ebay.

Chers, Dez

 

[Vickko]

Try here:

http://www.ohiovalleynitro.com/info.html

 

[sanmich]

I don't think so. The best way I have found to duplicate the deep lustrous original finish is with nitrocellulose paint. I know that was originally used for Leicas, but I am unsure about the Contaxes.

It still exists, and is used for musical instruments. It is not widely available, but I was able to buy a spray can on ebay.

Chers, Dez

Does nitrocellulose paint adhere to brass better than other paints?
Brass is very difficult to paint and the paint usually chips quite easily.

 

[Dez]

I am not sure about the relative adhesion. Beyond the normal steps of careful sanding, and if possible, acid etching before painting, I find that the use of SEM self etching primer gives me excellent adhesion to brass and aluminum surfaces. It can be found in spray cans at stores specializing in body shop work. It is not available in regular hardware stores.

Cheers,
Dez

 

[Dralowid]

The Contax I is a bit awkward to repaint because it is both brass and aluminium/alloy. The finish needs to match across both and there is a need to prevent any further oxidisation of the alloy.

Anyway, I'm now not sure it is the right thing to do. These cameras do not age gracefully like a black Leica and restoration attempts that I have seen have left something to be desired, perhaps better left...

Michael