Patina Porn: Saddleback’s Leather ID Wallet, Two Years In

Saddleback Leather Co. Leather ID Wallet – $33.00

I bought this wallet  in tobacco brown about the same time as my thin briefcase. For two years I’ve carried it almost every day and it’s holding up far better than any other leather wallet I’ve used for two years.

On a typical day all I carry in it are two cards and a license. That leaves room to tuck in a few extra cards and various odds and ends for the day’s needs. In theory, I have a money clip for cash. In practice, the cash I carry usually fits in the center pocket fine. That’s about it though, and that’s the idea. This wallet forces you to keep it light.

Wallet in tobacco brown on thin briefcase in dark coffee brown.

It’s slim, but it does have more heft to it than other card cases. It’s about twice as thick as my Brooks Brothers Slim Card Case. But it’s still slimmer than my previous billfold, particularly with all that I used to stuff into that. And it’s a third of the price of the Brooks Brothers one.

The exterior is full grain leather and the lining is pigskin.  The marine grade thread has held up incredibly well and there’s not a hint of fraying. There’s no plastic in the ID window to age and crack. After two years, my ID sits a little loose, but I’ve never had it slip out accidentally.

It sits comfortably in either my front or back pocket. It has been soaked with both rain and sweat without damage. If anything, the leather has improved, developing a gorgeous patina. It just keeps looking better with each year. I’ve had other leather wallets wear out. This thing has matured.

Own a wallet from Saddleback?  What’s your experience been like?  Have alternatives?  Leave it all below.

Ben Madeska is Dappered’s Arts & Culture correspondent.  Along with quality leather goods, he enjoys literature, art, food, and wine.  For a real perspective on the news these things seem to make, follow Ben on Twitter.