Gator skin men's accessories

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Kingair

I just checked their website . . . really nice stuff.

I think that I might be a new customer in a few months when I got some spare to visit the store

HAGOne

Here is some food for thought and this is why I chose to order one in matte and not glossy version. Not sure how true this is, but this information was posted on another forum from a guy who supposedly works with different kinds of leathers.

"Generally speaking (there may be some developments I'm not aware of) glossy alligator is a dryer vegetable tannage than the matte. The gloss on what is known as "bombe'" alligator is produced by burnishing the surface with glass(?) rollers...some heat may be generated which is not good for veg tannages.

The matte alligator that I work with is much more supple and I believe longer lasting potentially than the bombe'."

Only two significant differences between American alligator and Nile crocodile...price and the size of the tile. Croc will have a smaller average tile than gator for a skin of relatively the same size.

[ippon20]

Originally Posted by dddrees

"Generally speaking (there may be some developments I'm not aware of) glossy alligator is a dryer vegetable tannage than the matte. The gloss on what is known as "bombe'" alligator is produced by burnishing the surface with glass(?) rollers...some heat may be generated which is not good for veg tannages.

The matte alligator that I work with is much more supple and I believe longer lasting potentially than the bombe'."

That's the best excuse for using cheaper hide I've ever heard. Grade A gloss alligator costs roughly $40.00/cm where as a matte finish Grade A would run almost half that cost. There is no burnishing done with a gloss finish. The gloss is achieved much like patent leather, where as waxes and such are impregnated into the hide itself or what's known as "pressed". This also provides better protection for the hide itself with water, dirt, etc..

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by ippon20

That's the best excuse for using cheaper hide I've ever heard. Grade A gloss alligator costs roughly $40.00/cm where as a matte finish Grade A would run almost half that cost. There is no burnishing done with a gloss finish. The gloss is achieved much like patent leather, where as waxes and such are impregnated into the hide itself or what's known as "pressed". This also provides better protection for the hide itself with water, dirt, etc..

Well maybe that's true. But then again you also deleted the entire first paragraph of what I initialy said.

Here is some food for thought and this is why I choose to order one in matte and not the glossy version. Not sure how true this is, but this information was posted on another forum from a guy who supposedly works with different kinds of leathers.


Besides I also plan to use some leather conditioner on the wallet from time to time anyway.

[ippon20]

For a customer. He wanted a matching strap to go with the wallet. Sorry for quality, screenshot from instagram.

[Culley22]

Had a hiccup as I can't get the hornback with the braided edges. But yeah, I'll probably be ordering from there (either that or wait till I go down to New Orleans and see what they have in Gator country).

[dddrees]

The hand braiding is what made my choice a no brainer.

[Kingair]

Originally Posted by dddrees

Here is some food for thought and this is why I chose to order one in matte and not glossy version. Not sure how true this is, but this information was posted on another forum from a guy who supposedly works with different kinds of leathers.

"Generally speaking (there may be some developments I'm not aware of) glossy alligator is a dryer vegetable tannage than the matte. The gloss on what is known as "bombe'" alligator is produced by burnishing the surface with glass(?) rollers...some heat may be generated which is not good for veg tannages.

The matte alligator that I work with is much more supple and I believe longer lasting potentially than the bombe'."

Only two significant differences between American alligator and Nile crocodile...price and the size of the tile. Croc will have a smaller average tile than gator for a skin of relatively the same size.

Thanks for the info

HAGOne

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Kingair

Thanks for the info

HAGOne

Do keep an open mind on the information I provided though. As you can see there are others that feel differently. Once again I stress, I am no expert. I was just trying to provide what I thought might be helpful information.

[Culley22]

I was hoping to get the Hornback handbraided as the durability of the edges and wear will be one thing I'm hoping to mitigate. Now the decision of the handbraided edges of your choice, or the hornbacked....

I'd say both, since that what I did with my Explorer 2 choice, but the wife may not approve...

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Culley22

I was hoping to get the Hornback handbraided as the durability of the edges and wear will be one thing I'm hoping to mitigate. Now the decision of the handbraided edges of your choice, or the hornbacked....

I'd say both, since that what I did with my Explorer 2 choice, but the wife may not approve...

Good luck, I hope you get the one your looking for. I know I'm happy with the one I choose.

[ippon20]

Originally Posted by dddrees

Well maybe that's true. But then again you also deleted the entire first paragraph of what I initialy said.

Here is some food for thought and this is why I choose to order one in matte and not the glossy version. Not sure how true this is, but this information was posted on another forum from a guy who supposedly works with different kinds of leathers.


Besides I also plan to use some leather conditioner on the wallet from time to time anyway.

Sorry, I deleted it because I didn't want it to seem like you said it. As a leather worker myself there are many excuses that some people give for using inferior product. I would suggest using Aussie wax for your matte gator, this will add some water durability to your piece.

Here is a fact that many in the business choose to ignore: almost any leather product should last a lifetime if well cared for. The main factors for determining a quality leather product vs inferior would be 1. Stitching, is it hand stitched or machine stitched? Hand stitching is preferred as it has what's called a saddle stitch meaning that every single stitch locks into place. Machines perform what is called a lock stitch which will unravel if one random thread comes undone. Hand stitching is an art all to itself which requires performing the same exact task and tension on every single stitch with no exceptions. 2. Edge finishing: are the edges coated or left raw and burnished? Many makers prefer to hide their leather cutting skills or lack thereof by painting the edges to a sing smooth edge. And finally 3. PATINA: this is what separates the men from the boys. If you are spending top dollar from a top tannery for top quality hides, your leather will age and gain character over time. The general rule of thumb is that if you notice your piece getting darker and richer over time, chances are you have decent leather.

Here is a good word of advice. If you have the opportunity to speak with the leatherworker making your piece, ask how long it takes for labor. If they tell you something like a bifold wallet takes anywhere less than 2 hours and they are charging over $100, you should rethink the purchase. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please feel free to PM me. I love talking shop and helping educate people about the industry. I got started in this business because I was one of many that thought that a 400 leather wallet should last 20 years and got tired of watching my purchases fall apart after only 2. Good luck in your searches guys.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by ippon20

Sorry, I deleted it because I didn't want it to seem like you said it. As a leather worker myself there are many excuses that some people give for using inferior product. I would suggest using Aussie wax for your matte gator, this will add some water durability to your piece.

Here is a fact that many in the business choose to ignore: almost any leather product should last a lifetime if well cared for. The main factors for determining a quality leather product vs inferior would be 1. Stitching, is it hand stitched or machine stitched? Hand stitching is preferred as it has what's called a saddle stitch meaning that every single stitch locks into place. Machines perform what is called a lock stitch which will unravel if one random thread comes undone. Hand stitching is an art all to itself which requires performing the same exact task and tension on every single stitch with no exceptions. 2. Edge finishing: are the edges coated or left raw and burnished? Many makers prefer to hide their leather cutting skills or lack thereof by painting the edges to a sing smooth edge. And finally 3. PATINA: this is what separates the men from the boys. If you are spending top dollar from a top tannery for top quality hides, your leather will age and gain character over time. The general rule of thumb is that if you notice your piece getting darker and richer over time, chances are you have decent leather.

Here is a good word of advice. If you have the opportunity to speak with the leatherworker making your piece, ask how long it takes for labor. If they tell you something like a bifold wallet takes anywhere less than 2 hours and they are charging over $100, you should rethink the purchase. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please feel free to PM me. I love talking shop and helping educate people about the industry. I got started in this business because I was one of many that thought that a 400 leather wallet should last 20 years and got tired of watching my purchases fall apart after only 2. Good luck in your searches guys.

Thanks for the reply and for the additional information. I had actually considered using a product called Saphir Special Reptile Beauty Milk (Reptan)which is supposed to be specifically for exotic leathers.

[ippon20]

Originally Posted by dddrees

Thanks for the reply and for the additional information. I had actually considered using a product called Saphir Special Reptile Beauty Milk (Reptan)which is supposed to be specifically for exotic leathers.

Very good product, just make sure you clean all dust and dirt off before using anything. Saphir is great stuff for sure.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by ippon20

Very good product, just make sure you clean all dust and dirt off before using anything. Saphir is great stuff for sure.

Thanks for the help.


Yeah, I've been using Saphir products pretty much exclusively for all my shoes.

[Culley22]

All my leather products get some Obenhauf treatment.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Culley22

All my leather products get some Obenhauf treatment.

I've heard nothing but good things about this as well.

However are you certain this would work well on Alligator also?

[Culley22]

Originally Posted by dddrees

I've heard nothing but good things about this as well.

However are you certain this would work well on Alligator also?

I actually have no clue...and am glad you mentioned this. I made the assumption of "leather" products and that I have the Obenhauf...

Guess I'll be adding to my collection for leather treatment.

FYI, still haven't decided but the braided leather is so far the leader. Just stunning!

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Culley22

I actually have no clue...and am glad you mentioned this. I made the assumption of "leather" products and that I have the Obenhauf...

Guess I'll be adding to my collection for leather treatment.

FYI, still haven't decided but the braided leather is so far the leader. Just stunning!

You might want to try Saphir Special Reptile Beauty Milk (Reptan)which is made specifically for exotic leathers.

Good luck

[Culley22]

Do you have a preferred place to purchase this? Must be available via internet, as I live in the middle of nowhere.

[dddrees]

It's originally from France and not availible in many places in the states. So I purchase it from here:

www.hangerproject.com

But I always make sure I purchase enough products ($50 or more) so I don't have to pay shipping.


Keep in mind that Saphir products are great, but they are also a bit more than most other leather products out there.

[Culley22]

Originally Posted by dddrees

It's originally from France and not availible in many places in the states. So I purchase it from here:

www.hangerproject.com

But I always make sure I purchase enough products ($50 or more) so I don't have to pay shipping.


Keep in mind that Saphir products are great, but they are also a bit more than most other leather products out there.

Hahaha...I chuckled a little bit there. I live in a place where Unleaded fuel is $7/gal...buying stuff ANYWHERE else but here is almost a relief.

If the product is good, I have plenty of leather goods that always need attention, so i'm anxious to put this in the rotation. Just have to figure out which wallet I want.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Culley22

Hahaha...I chuckled a little bit there. I live in a place where Unleaded fuel is $7/gal...buying stuff ANYWHERE else but here is almost a relief.

If the product is good, I have plenty of leather goods that always need attention, so i'm anxious to put this in the rotation. Just have to figure out which wallet I want.

Glad to see your able to laugh about it at least.

[Lol-x]

Innocent creatures that wouldn't harm a fly.......

That is just wrong.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Lol-x

Innocent creatures that wouldn't harm a fly.......

That is just wrong.

[Culley22]

Originally Posted by dddrees

Glad to see your able to laugh about it at least.

You know its bad when you go to Hawaii for vacation "because it's cheap". hahahaha

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by Culley22

You know its bad when you go to Hawaii for vacation "because it's cheap". hahahaha

I've actually been to both Alaska and Hawaii, so I well aware of what your talking about.

[Culley22]

Next time someone puts an order in for some Saphir Reptan, would you care to get an extra container and ship it USPS up this way?? I'll do some more googling, but the hangerproject.com only has FedEX and UPS as an option (and not a cheap one). While I don't mind paying a little extra for living in BFE, I'm still not a fan of getting raped (at least not without a curtiousy reach around). :)

Anyone?