Leica Wood Handgrip: 沈師傅

VictorChen

It is a honor to have finally met Master Shum (沈師傅) in person during his short trip to Hong Kong.



The wood used for the above handgrip is "black ebony wood" (黑檀木). There is no coloration whatsoever, and according to Master Shum, this particular wood has been aged for more than 50 years, therefore it will not expand nor contract which makes this wood an ideal raw material for cameras and their accessories requiring precision work. And precision is exactly what Master Shum has delivered. I have here a set of hand grip and a thumb grip for the Leica MP, which will also fit the M6 and the M7 very nicely. Also available from Master Shum is the grip for the Leica M8 and the M9.

Pro:
1. no two items are identical, as no two natural woods are identical
2. wood and handmade craftsmanship add a certain touch of humanity, a bit of soul to the metallically cold camera
3. the more you use it, the wood texture gets better
4. the handgrip gives you a better grip, this becomes noticeable when you're using a larger lens such as a 75mm f1.4
5. both the handgrip and the thumb grip are ergonomically designed with no sharp edges to discomfort your palm
6. not heavy



Con:
1. it makes the camera large
2. wood supply is extremely small, do expect a long wait
3. if you expect 100% flawlessness, get the CNC cut





Master Shum's passion towards photography is unparalleled, his persistency on using only the best aged wood is an inspiration to us all, his craftsmanship puts him at the level of a National grade. Where else can you find a person with this kind of combination? Each and individual piece of item is handmade by Master Shum; chip by chip, hours after hours, a true work of art by a master artisan !!

lam_ming_long

I wish I get a MP,  a MP brassed very well!!

That's mine m4p, I like it alot!!

Anyway, that hand grip is an art! how much for this?

VictorChen

Very Nice camera !!!!

the handgrip is running around HK$1900, and the thumb grip is around HK$1000

Price tends to fluctuate a lot due to the cost of wood, and it's from my understanding that there is a long wait....

lam_ming_long

Thanks vic~
1.9k is reasonable for such a beauty, how can I contact him? thanks!

VictorChen

personally I do find the price to be worth while, especially considering the CNC cut metal grip cost about the same !!
the wood feels warmer by touch, it really adds the flavor to a Leica.

I don't dare to disclose Master Shum's personal contact number due to privacy, but this is what I find on the internet;
http://www2.xitek.com/exchange/s ... 85&pagenumber=1

Hope you can find what you want.