Tanned alligator is beautiful. It is ruggedly handsome and sophisticated at the same time. Alligator is durable while appearing delicate. And, because of the unique pattern of scales on every piece of alligator, no two objects are exactly the same. Alligator succeeds in being both rugged and luxurious at the same time.
Alligators usually live in freshwater. They have blunt, heavy snouts and can live up to 50 years. Crocodiles, on the other hand, have longer, pointed snouts, usually live in salty or brackish waters and have been known to live as long as 100 years. Alligator and crocodile skins—the patterns and shapes of the scales—do vary by species. But there is one telltale sign which helps the amateur distinguish croc skins from that of gators: crocodiles scales usually have a visible "pore" within each cell. This is a follicle where a hair-like ISO (an Integumentary Sensory Organ) once sprouted. These hairs, found only on crocodiles, helped the creature sense movement (possibly food or danger) in its watery surroundings.
The classic wallet, shown here, is made of farm-raised American alligator. This alligator skin is unglazed which results in a softer, more-casual matte appearance (glazed alligator is shiny). With use and handling, the leather will develop a burnished patina—as the wallet is gently polished every time it is touched. The hand-stitched interior has eight pockets for credit- and identification cards. Please click on the photo above to learn more about this handsome wallet.
More leather wallets tomorrow and in the days to come.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.