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[Myequation]

I'm sure this has been asked many many times but I can't find info on the subject.  I own several old cameras that are not worth much to collectors.  I would never try repainting a leica or anything in that realm.  I simply want to repaint some beaten up black camera bodies after I completely strip them down.  What's the best spray paint on the market for this?  Epoxy and auto paints sound good but I wonder how they will hold up with time? Has anyone tried this?

[Glenn]

It does not really depend on the paint you use for the final top/colour coat, the wear characteristics are dependent on the primer system you use. Components stripped back down to the brass will need a good etch prime, if wear is going to be a problem.
 
I do not know where you are located, so giving specific names/manufacturers will not be relevant. What I will say; is that I have used various modern acrylic auto paints, to restore/paint a number of cameras. These include a number of Zorki 1 specials, that have seen a great deal of use. The etch primer/auto acrylic paint system has stood up well.
 
I have had good results with a commercial epoxy paint. The only trouble is that is is a 'high build' system and does not take that well to airbrush/small spray application techniques.
 
At the end of the day, it is the preparation that is the most important - get this right - and there  is a good choice of paint systems available, for the likes of us.

[John_shriver]

Also worth consideration are paints meant to be baked after application.  The original version of Scalecoat paint for model railroads is this way, and it's quite tough if you bake it.

[Olly_ympus]

I just repainted the back of one of my OM 2s today. The edges of the backs and the window that you put the end of your film box in invariably get badly scratched.  
I just used Duplicolor auto touch up spray paint in basic black. (No clear coat required type)
I feathered the edges of the chipped areas with 600 grit paper, gave it a good alcohol rub down to remove dirt, etc., and carefully masked off the leatherette with low tack masking film of the type used in air brushing.
The results are quite good compared to the way it used to look, and the paint dried quickly and was easy to use. As it is automotive paint, I'm certain it will be durable.

[Paul Ron]

The original paint is powder coat.

[Olly_ympus]

I'm on day two of my new paint job as I described above and so far so good. I've been handling the camera a lot and the paint is there to stay I think.

[Clintock]

Hey Olly-
did the Duplicolor paint have a similar flatness to the original Olympus paint?
I thought the automotive paints might be more glossy, like the glossy paint on an OM-2n for example.  
I like the idea of using a Lacquer, so it can be touched up, unlike enamel, where touch up never works..

[Olly_ympus]

I used the Duplicolor on two OM 2 backs so far with great results. It does match the gloss quite well.(All my OM 1s and 2s are rather glossy in appearance.) And yes, the lacquer is much easier to work with, it dries in just a few minutes.
The color I used is, # 8800941 BLACK(M).

[Ambrose]

It?s really good to know that your car?s engine is still well tuned n the problem is with its exterior. I will suggest you to get your car off the dents first n den get it repainted. For your car?s color selection I can suggest you a website from where I buy paints for my Lamborghini. It?s http://www.automotivetouchup.com/ I hope it?ll help u.

[Glenn]

Is the last post for real?!! Somebody please get this into the trash can pronto!