Ok, I have gotten confirmation that the top, bottom, and front
covers a definitely mag alloy.
Opinion: I would guess that it is actually an
aluminum-magnesium alloy probably only 20% or so mag. That
would be far more corrosive resistant than if the mix was the
other way around and stronger, but it don't sound as well in the
advertising arena. The thickness of the die casting is at least
part of the reason the camera is quieter than previous Pentax
models. The coating whatever it is looks very tough so unless
it is scratched seriously it probably will hold up real well.
--Tom
mike wilson wrote:
>
> Hi,
>
> Magnesium body shell makes the MZ-S a definite no-no for me.
> Magnesium is one of the most reactive of metals. The reason it
> is covered with some form of coating is that it would corrode to
> nothing within a year otherwise. This is unlike Aluminium which
> is _so_ reactive it seals itself with a layer of oxide if
> damaged.
>
> Making the body frame from Magnesium alloy makes sense, as this
> will be well protected against damage by the covering works and
> body shell.
>
> Prospective buyers of the MZ-S will need to take great care
> (paradoxically, more so than if it were plastic or aluminium
> based alloy) with the body.
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