Notebook bag, cognac

Harold’s produces this office bag in a classic format and with an understated, well thought-out design. One of the two large zipped compartments is padded so that your notebook, tablet etc. can be transported safely to the office. What we really like is that the other compartment is so spacious thanks to the inserted side wedges and wide zipper that it also offers space for a conventional file folder or a whole bunch of analog documents or Magazine. An external front pocket with magnetic fasteners holds everything that needs to be within easy reach. For convenient handling on longer trips, the back compartment can be opened at the top and bottom so that the bag can be slid over the extended handle of a trolley.

To ensure that the notebook bag can carry weighty contents but is not too heavy itself, Harold’s uses an exceptionally light yet robust cowhide leather. The vegetable-tanned leather is only waxed, but not otherwise finished, so that its surface is velvety soft and rich to the touch and will develop a lively patina. The handles and shoulder straps made of strong, dark brown saddle leather contrast beautifully with the soft, cognac-colored leather of the body. They are open-edged, the carrying handles are partly doubled and reinforced on the gripping surface so that they fit comfortably in the hand. Metal feet protect the base of the bag when it is put down. Inside, the Notebook bag is lined with a strong panama fabric made of equal parts cotton and polyester. The large compartment has a zipped pocket and a slip pocket.

Harold’ has its leather goods designed in Germany and manufactured in a Colombian manufactory. The fruitful cooperation goes back to the mid-1980s. Eventually, it involves more than usual: Based on legal employment contracts, the collaboration provides the Columbian workers with reliable working conditions, ensures their coverage in health and accident insurances, and contributes to a pension scheme. Therefore, many of the employees have been working in the company for more than 20 years. Over the years, they have accumulated relevant expertise and experience in leather processing. That’s not a given in South America’s leather goods industry: Typical for the sector is a high proportion of migrant workers and fluctuations in the workforce. No less impressive is Harold’s conscientious handling of the extensive safety regulations: The working conditions meet European standards, for example, by putting forward muffled acoustics, adequate floor space and exemplary cleanliness. A large part of the machinery originates in Europe as well. The leather comes from nearby kept cattle grazing outdoors all year round, as is customary in South America. The tanned leather’s surface still shows the natural grain and traces of the animal’s life, such as mosquito bites or small cracks, and soon the patina typical of leather will form on it. Harold’s has the lining fabrics and metal parts produced by partner companies based close to the Colombian manufactory.

Staining of light-coloured clothing, furniture and other objects is possible.