A Celebration of Artisanal Excellence
Our handmade leather satchels represent the quintessence of traditional British craftsmanship in its purest form. Each satchel embodies the vision that Arthur Garstin established in 1871 - a seamless fusion of impeccable skills, premium materials, and thoughtful design that creates pieces of extraordinary quality and character. This collection continues a storied legacy spanning over 150 years, celebrating both heritage and innovation in every stitch.
Crafted by Master Artisans
Every Garstin 1871 satchel is individually handcrafted in our English workshop in the rolling Gloucestershire hills by a single skilled artisan from start to finish. This one-person approach ensures unparalleled attention to detail and an intimate connection between maker and creation. Our master leatherworkers apply techniques passed down through five generations, creating satchels of exceptional refinement that stand apart from mass-produced alternatives.
The Finest Materials, Sourced with Care
We source our leather exclusively from a small family-owned tannery in Tuscany, La Perla Azzura, which has been using traditional vegetable-tanning methods since 1967. This premium Italian leather develops a distinctive and rich patina over time, enhancing its character with every use. Complemented by premium English suede interiors and solid brass hardware, our satchels are crafted from only the finest materials available.
Designed for Modern Needs
While honouring traditional aesthetics, our satchels are thoughtfully engineered for contemporary requirements. Each bag comfortably accommodates a MacBook Air or Pro, while interior suede compartments organize your phone, notebooks, and daily essentials. The classic exterior pocket provides convenient access to items like your passport, making our satchels as practical for today's needs as they are beautiful.
Available in Timeless Colors
Our collection features a curated selection of classic hues including Racing Green, Chestnut Brown, and Rouge Red - each offering its own distinctive character while maintaining the sophisticated essence of the traditional English satchel. Select the shade that best reflects your personal style and watch as it develops deeper richness and character over the years.
A Living Investment
The natural oils in our premium leather allow minor scuffs to be easily buffed out with a simple rub of your thumb, while the brass hardware develops its own distinctive patina over time. Each satchel comes with a dust bag for storage and our lifetime promise - we'll stitch, fix, and mend any Garstin 1871 product to ensure it remains a faithful companion for decades. This commitment reflects our belief in creating fewer but better things, pieces that might still draw admiration in a Paris flea market a century from now.
From our skilled hands to yours, experience the art of handmade leather craftsmanship at its finest.
