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The Benchmark is our edition of the classic handbag. Sharing the same build as our Folkstyle Tote, but shorter in height, with a solid brass YKK zipper, interior and exterior pockets. The handles are seated lower in the bag body for a better balance and ability to stand upright when set down.
Specs
Leather
Kodiak is our long standing favorite oil tan leather, that we use for the Tote and Crossbody, and dopp kits. It has a supple soft hand.
Tobacco is a buffed leather surface for a nappy and more rugged texture. Slight pullup means you can push the oil dye around to reveal color changes. A firmer hand means it is more rigid in structure and will stand up with ease.
**Crazyhorse is a buffed leather surface for a nappy and more rugged texture. Slight pullup means you can push the oil dye around to reveal color changes. A firmer hand means it is more rigid in structure and will stand up with ease. Be aware of a wide variation on color from crazyhorse as the product photos shown are on the lightest end of the spectrum. We are unable to control what variation we receive from the tannery.
Care & Maintenance
This wonderful rugged oil tan leather will age and patina as any authentic full grain leather will. It will carry the markings and signs of age, and that is what we love about real leather. To easily polish up your handbag, use our natural leather balm with a soft cloth and circular motions across the surface. This will restore the even coloring, as well as invigorate and protect the leather. You can apply leather balm every few months. What's important is keeping the leather from drying out. Enjoy the aging process of your Benchmark Handbag as it begins to show the patina that tells its history.
This leather handbag is typically in stock and read to ship. Occasionally may be out of stock, in which case please allow 1-2 weeks for build and delivery.
Overall rating: 5.0 / 5 from 3 reviews.
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"Second bag I get from Craft and Lore for my wife and they’re both superb. She loves the quality and how well the leather ages. People comment on her bag’s looks and on the quality of it which I love (cause I chose it and cause it makes her happy)."
"As always, the best quality, the best leather. . . this is the fourth handbag I buy from you. Products for life. Thank you."
"I recently acquired the Benchmark Handbag from Craft & Lore and I am thoroughly impressed with the quality and design of this handbag. It is made from thick, high-quality leather that is as soft as it is durable, making it a pleasure to handle. The design is compact, yet the handbag offers practical pockets that are perfect for stowing away various accessories. I opted for the model in black with a brown handle, which presents a very elegant and sophisticated look, suitable for any occasion. The closure, which seems to be made of copper or bronze, or a similar hard alloy, is very sturdy and gives the impression that it will last for many years. Despite my overall satisfaction with this purchase, I must mention that a bit more attention to detail in the gluing process would be beneficial. I noticed a slight residue of glue on the leather, which doesn’t impact the functionality but is something to consider to maintain the impeccable aesthetic of the product. Overall, the Benchmark Handbag is a high-quality item that I would recommend to any enthusiast of fine leather goods. It’s more than just a handbag; it’s a collectible piece that is sure to attract attention."
