Let’s face it Apart from style leather half-cases designed for cameras that are mirrorless serve nothing. It’s mostly about fashion, not protection, and not ergonomic improvement, and nothing else like this. Any alteration in these zones is, typically accidental. A side effect. When it comes to the right accessory it is important to consider the style and quality of the item. It is possible to shell out a lot of money for something that isn’t useful or practical to own if it appears good and is constructed with the highest level of precision. Gariz is a tiny Korean camera accessory maker that few know about is awash with work in a sense.
The standard disclaimer: This leather half-case made by Gariz was given to me at no cost specifically for review purposes. However, neither Gariz nor the manufacturer or the seller, LoveCases.co.uk, has any impact on my experiences. Like always, my opinions are mine alone. It’s also important to note that the particular half-case made of leather made by Gariz was designed originally to fit the Fujifilm X-E1. Although it will fit the X-E2 about the same as long as you are aware of looking for small imperfections however, there is a distinct and slightly different version designed for the Fujifilm X-E2. It is available in a variety of colours with a slightly different design leather-based treatment. This review focuses on this particular situation and highlights some of Gariz’s main objectives (hopefully) however, it is not the complete list of Gariz’s products.
Looks
The expression could be a cliché, however, the truth is that looks are in the eyes of the observer. I could go on about the Brown leather Gariz half-case for three paragraphs however when it doesn’t make an impression on you, it won’t work for you. Also, I could critique the heck out of it, and it’s nothing if you loved it. In this instance it’s not even a issue of one’s level of sophistication (speaking of which, I’m not a great designer however I would like I were) as the case isn’t in any way ugly or offensive. It’s really an issue of preference. Be aware of that when going through what I will write in the next paragraph.
My own version of this case comes in brown or, as Gariz describes it, brown. It’s not the classic brown leather that is so typical of the rangefinder cameras with 35mm lenses of the past, though. It’s dark and is a tiny bit of red hue in certain lighting. In a dimly lit area it can appear more dark. It is stunning when you use the silver and black versions of the camera, however. Elegant and elegant, it does not detract from the design of the camera.
Are you noticing the air bubbles created from the protector on your screen? Think of it as an introduction to one of my coming mini reviews. There’s a reason for blood-sucking rage.
Leather is very reflective, ranging between polished and matte. This is the main reason it appears so elegant. However scratches will be evident if you manage to harm the otherwise sturdy and sturdy leather. I’m sceptical that the case may not last enough. Although that is yet to be determined (I might be incorrect, as I’ve only had it for a short time and used it with a lot of care) I’m not convinced that it’s ever an issue. Digital cameras are generally very temporary, and the case will only last for as long as the camera itself. The question is, if you’d prefer a leather case over an organic style is a matter of personal preference. I like the fact the fact that it isn’t deliberately aged and is more authentic in this manner and works well with the clean or “polished” photographs that are digitally taken.
The style of the case is pretty straightforward, at least on first sight. There are a lot of easy-to-see lines that do not just complement and reflect the design of the camera itself however, they are also accentuated through it’s contrast stitching. The stitching, however, isn’t as uniform as the smooth, glossy leather would like – slightly more sterile, and more matte. finish allows for some distinctive imperfections that suggest the product is handmade imperfect, but more beautiful for it. The current leather choices require perfection, however. I’m not saying that it isn’t perfect, but it’s not bad work. But it’s not exactly perfect. The reflective leather is too neat and makes a slight characterful sloppiness to a little just-sloppiness. I think it is important to mention that I’m very selective with this, but any such behaviour on my part must be taken as an endorsement to Gariz. Overall that I was pleasantly impressed by the style. It appears better “in in the real metal” than it appears in these images of the product as well, and the logo isn’t a hindrance to the overall good impression.
However there are some elements that raised a doubt or two in my opinion. But with one caveat, more on that later, Gariz clearly wanted an elegant and simple style. There’s not much to attract attention to the case, there aren’t any weird lines or angles which is what makes the case stunning. But they did make a compromise in one specific area without a reason. They left a tiny cut from where the USB port cover is located, probably in order to make it easier for you to reach. This means they cut what was otherwise an even line to allow your fingers accessibility to hinges… that you can’t open when the case is on in the event that you begin to manipulate the case. That’s right – the little “chicane” could be a waste from a design point of view, and not practical from a practical point of view. However one could argue that it creates an element of kink, or an area to draw attention.
The caveat is that. The bottom of the case which is the part that houses the socket for the tripod – are covered in metallic. It’s not obvious from the photos of the product I captured but the case is well-polished metal. It’s so polished, in fact, in the event in the event of a makeup crisis my partner could almost utilize it to serve as mirror. It’s truly, seriously attractive if it happens to be alight source. I’m fairly certain that there has never been the same thing before and yet, here is a faux leather half-case that has the bling. It also happens to be functional, which I am absolutely stunned by. I really love it, and this has to do my personal preference, not being someone who is a fan of chrome specifics. The contrast between the natural leather and the cold reflective surface of metal is, to my mind perfect. The fact that I did not anticipate seeing such a pair makes it all the more fascinating. The real thing is the kink, and I believe it is more effective that if it were covered in leather. It makes me wonder what wood bases would look… or am I too thick when it comes to style? Perhaps the case, as I would not be at all surprised to hear that you think it’s an impulsive choice by Gariz and that doesn’t match the classic, stylish look for the camera. Whatever the case, it’s an opportune choice, and one that I am awestruck by.
Quality
Don’t take up your time and add this: overall, the build quality of this case excellent. When I first put it in the camera – it screwed right to the tripod socket I remember being amazed by how tight it felt. It isn’t moving when you tighten it it is like the case can be viewed as a camera. The leather is soft enough however, it appears extremely durable until you attempt to harm it by using anything sharp. I was also impressed by the way both parts the leather half-case as well as the base made of metal – are aligned. No noticeable gaps, none. But, I would prefer the sheet of metal to be a bit more thick. The plastic the metal is glued is visible and is not made of the finest quality. To make a product of the highest quality the entire base needs to consist of a thick piece of aluminium or brass, however, the corners have been cut. There’s another problem. Look at the following image of the product near on the spot where there is a tripod socket
The base of the metal is where the manufacturing flaws appear on my replica of the case. Take note of that the socket for a tripod. But, it doesn’t alter the functionality in any way and the case feels sturdy, despite the metal plate being thin. It reminds me that I’m almost wishing the plate were made of the thicker and more durable brass.
Do you see the gap? This tiny defect is the only issue I have with my particular case. It does not affect the durability that the tripod socket has. it feels secure and tight however there is no way to deny that the flaw exists. When I spoke to LoveCases about this issue, I was told that generally speaking, Gariz products are extremely top quality, and they’ve never come across issues like this prior to. I truly hope that’s the case as everything else is good quality and well-executed. I’m sure that Gariz hasn’t perfected her manufacturing processes. In the absence of objective evidence, I cannot decide for myself, though. This is the sole Gariz instance I’ve had in my hands, and the sample isn’t really adequate enough to make any definitive conclusion.
In addition one could suggest that the polished plate is more susceptible to scratches. This is the case to a certain extent. My case is largely unaffected by scratches However, I use the Fujifilm with a lot of diligence all the time. And the only indication of the fact that this case initially intended for XE1 and not X-E2 is that the case moves across the LCD’s bottom screen, and then “climbs” over it a little bit The screen on the XE1 is smaller than the one I have on my camera.
Therefore, Do We Have Ergonomic improvements?
In the beginning of this article, I said that any changes to ergonomics are more of a result of accident as opposed to a goal of the designer. Therefore, let me go over the effects of these changes a more. The first thing to note is that the case adds around centimeters to the width that the camera is. For those with larger hands, they will appreciate the extra space since suddenly you have more surface to grasp with confidence. This is the same for increased thickness. It’s not a major improvement however, using the camera with the case on is more comfortable. There are some disadvantages to the higher height however. Because the case is thin and the lower plate is very thin, affixing it onto the camera causes the center of weight shifts upwards. This is not a problem if you use a smaller prime lens onto the camera, however, using the lens I am using, XF 23mm f/1.4R the camera has a tendency to lean forward, while it was not in the case. The lens’s bottom was almost at a level with the camera’s bottom. The camera being placed on a flat, solid surface will require a more care. If the base plate was made of thicker, heavier brass and the weight center will be lower. A minor issue, but there.
There are only a few other issues. As I said the port cover may be removed with the case on. If you prefer use a USB cable to connect the camera with a computer via an USB cord, rather than access the memory card in order to transfer pictures, you’ll be required to unattach the half-case every time. If, on the other hand, you prefer plugging your SD card into an scanner, Gariz has left a clever opening to the battery/memory card door. But, I’m still required to loosen the screw by about a quarter of a revolution in order to open the cover of my battery as otherwise the screw handle would block the opening. Furthermore, getting the memory card off isn’t an easy job when the case is attached to the case, it’s just too the case is crowded. Also, regarding screws, it’s actually a hook that is utilized in conjunction with “gunshot” straps.
Final Words
It doesn’t matter what design-driven company offers – automobiles, electronics clothing or accessories. It’s a market with a fierce competition which is not a good fit for newcomers. We’ve all heard of Bowers & Wilkins, Braun, Audi, Apple, Zagato. Zeiss has always been great in design and so is Leica as well as Hasselblad. However, I can think about a few startups regardless of what they offer. SOL Republic springs to mind with its distinctively simple headphones. Cote&Ciel is among those who have managed to break through both quality and style while also establishing their own unique, distinct style of music. Apart from this… my inexperience and lack of research into the field shows that, obviously however, even keeping that in mind Newcomers can’t make it simple.
Gariz is a brand newcomer and it’s certainly not extravagant. The trendy camera accessories aren’t like clothing or automobiles. There aren’t a lot of businesses that specialize in these things, and of the ones who do, they tend to focus on the practical aspect of things and not the aesthetics. So, Gariz is in a very comfortable position to date. There’s no competition in this case The most obvious alternative to this particular half-case made of leather one example is one manufactured by Fujifilm and, while there are other companies who make stylish cases, for instance, Black Label Bag or Artisan & Artist however they do not have cases specifically for the Fujifilm X-E1/X-2. This doesn’t mean that Gariz won’t have a choice however, as it is. At PS55 (around $83 it’s available for purchase in black, brown or Black from LoveCases.co.uk) It’s just a fraction more expensive than Fujifilm’s half-case that includes strap. This means it must be of good quality…
It is not only very well-constructed and feels luxurious right from the packaging to the case (a excellent indicator of how high-end and design-driven the company is) It is also very attractive. Actually, I prefer more than Fujifilm’s official case. The leather is excellent and the lines are well-sorted as well as the colors that complement each other. the reflective metal base provides an unexpected interest. Very well done, Gariz.