How We Restore

Most of the bags we buy are not in a condition anyone would want to carry. Worn corners, broken zips, tired leather, linings that have given up. That is where our work starts.

Every bag goes through five stages

1. Sorting

Not every bag is worth saving. When a lot arrives, we go through it piece by piece and separate what can be restored from what cannot. Bags that are beyond repair are stripped for parts — their zips, straps and hardware go on to rescue other bags.

2. Deep cleaning

Exterior, interior, base and hardware. Linings are cleaned out properly, not just wiped. Anything that has been sitting in storage gets aired and deodorised.

3. Repair

Broken zips are replaced. Loose stitching is redone. Torn linings are patched or replaced. Straps that are failing are rebuilt or swapped. This is the slowest stage and the one that decides whether a bag makes it to the site.

4. Reconditioning

Leather is cleaned and conditioned so it stops drying out. Corners and edges are treated. Hardware is polished. The bag is reshaped and stuffed so it holds its form.

5. Grading and photography

Only now do we decide what grade the bag gets, based on how it looks after the work — not before. Then we photograph it as it actually is, including anything that is still visible.

Our four grades

  • Like New — fully restored, no visible signs of use.
  • Excellent — minor marks, visible only on close inspection.
  • Good — light honest wear, such as a corner rub or slight fading.
  • Character — clear signs of a life already lived, fully functional, priced accordingly.

What we will always tell you

Every product page carries two things: what we restored, and what remains. If a bag still has a scuff on the back corner, it is written on the page and photographed. We would rather you buy with your eyes open than open a parcel and feel misled.

Questions before you buy?

If you want another photo, a closer look at a particular mark, or a measurement checked again, message us before you order. We will go back to the bag and tell you honestly what we see.