Occasional readers may not be aware that I write a monthly column for How To Spent It – the luxury supplement to the Financial Times – under the title ‘Inside Track’.
Recent columns have included French leather company Jean Rousseau, the quality management at Mont Blanc, and an interview with perfumer Frederic Malle. Although some of them inevitably feature on the blog as well, the How To Spend It features usually take a different angle and include fresh information. Worth a browse.
You can see the list of columns here. And the individual ones mentioned at those links above.
I’m sure the error wasn’t yours but I imagine Monsieur Malle would be none too thrilled to see his scents marked up to £145 for 50ml when that’s the 100ml price. Maybe numbers aren’t the FT’s area of expertise after all.
Simon,
Quite offtopic, yesterday I was at the Hermès store having a look at their briefcases. I really like the Plume model in calfskin and I am looking for something more affordable. (no logos, preferably hand sewn).
What brands are on parallel in quality with Hermès?
I know you have mentioned the top range of Dunhill. What about Valextra (aside their synthetic linings)?
I got to know Isaac Reina (former Hermès designer) who has an atelier in Paris. I like their pure designs but I don’t know if they are hand sewn. Have a look if you can.
Best,
Hey
Yes the Plume is a nice model. There aren’t many on a par with Hermes, particularly in that softer, calf style. Dunhill and Swaine Adeney have things that are hand-sewn but the style is very different – bridle leather usually, which is heavier and tougher. Still lovely but a very different look.
I don’t know Isaac Reina well enough to be able to say much about them I’m afraid
Cheers
Thanks!
I thought the calf on the Hermès Plume was thinner bridle leather…
Best,
I don’t think so. Bridle leather is much more heavily oiled.
Valextra, by the way, I wouldn’t rate for their prices
In reply to Nestor, what about La Portegna? On a lesser budget level, £1k or less, The Bridge, Mont Blanc and Salvatore Ferragamo all do items of reasonable quality. NB Simon, is it meant to be How To Spend It (vs Spent)?