BRIDLE LEATHER PATINA SKIN

It has been made on a daily basis in Chicago by Horween since 1905. Shell cordovan was originally produced to hone straight razors as it was used for razor strops in the early 1900's. You can find the best source of information on the Chromexcel process here, written by Nick Horween. However, shell cordovan is the only leather where you can completely remove a scratch. Chromexcel and shell cordovan will scratch and scuff rather easily and, due to the high grease content, these scratches can be buffed out rather easily. Many tanneries will cringe at this concept because it decreases the yield (tanneries sell leather by the square foot) but also gives the leather a tighter, more calf-like, break as opposed to other drying methods like pasting or vacuum drying. Unlike many leathers, Chromexcel is air dried which allows the leather to shrink back on itself. The process in creating a piece of Chromexcel takes 89 separate processes (many of which are completely by hand) and takes 28 working days to complete. in Chicago where it has been being made consistently since the early 1900’s. Chromexcel has a “refined ruggedness” and will quickly develop character and having similar aesthetics to your grandfather’s old wallet very quickly.Ĭhromexcel is only made by Horween Leather Co. Chromexcel is a very versatile leather and is often found in boat shoes, classic shoe styles from Alden and Allen Edmonds, and many belts and small leather goods. It also has a very bright luster or can be left unpolished to have more of a matte finish look.

BRIDLE LEATHER PATINA SKIN

Both have their own unique qualities and values.Ĭhromexcel is the classic “pull-up” leather meaning that, when folded and flexed, greases that were impregnated into the skin migrate causing a very nice tonal effect. However, it should not be overlooked by other leathers like Chromexcel.

Shell cordovan is vastly regarded as the finest leather in the world because of its bright luster, non-creasing grain character, great leather smell, durability, and ability to develop and keep these characteristics over time.

Bridle leather patina