For those with a desire for unique accessories, GJ Cleverley has just added some new pieces made from the Russian reindeer hide that was dragged up in 1973 from the Metta Catharina von Flensburg, a Danish brigantine that was sunk in 1786 - despite being anchored in Plymouth Sound.
Cleverley has exclusive rights to all of the hides, from which only the finest are used for shoes and bags. The first pair of shoes the firm made in the leather were for Prince Charles. The signature piece is the Gladstone Bag, with a Racing Green goatskin lining. But that does cost £4,500. The wash bag is a snip by comparison at £425.Pictures here of the items as well as the leather being dragged out back in the seventies.
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Hi Simon,
ReplyDeleteIs it true that the Russian reindeer skins smells quite a bit or is that just an online myth?
Thanks for a great blog!
/P
It does smell, yes. The 1786 Russian hide has a unique oak wooden aroma to it. But I think it is a pleasant smell and it is one that remains for many years.
ReplyDeleteI have a wallet and cheque book cover made out of this hide and the smell was truly wonderful.
ReplyDeleteAlas, it has faded after almost 10 years and I love to expand my collection.
Can't quite stretch to 4.5K though.
I have the 1786 leather plack from the ship with the certificate of authenticity with that picture of the man on the front of the certificate. Can any body tell me abit more or how much its worth?
ReplyDeleteI don't know a price it would be worth however if you name a price Id be happy to pay you for it?
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