The Tomacelli Briefcase: All You Need To Know

The design of the Tomacelli briefcase is iconic with its statement buckle. The buckle fastening opens to reveal two large pockets on the exterior of the briefcase. These are suitably sized for a notebook or chargers for instance. There is also a zip on the back of the briefcase into which a magazine can be slipped. Though it is also large enough for an iPad, protected by the Ettore envelope iPad case of course.

Internally is where the two sizes differ. They both can accommodate a 17” laptop in one of the leather-lined sections, as well as a newspaper with your pens and business cards. These can all be organised into the detachable phone and pen holders plus the card slots. The difference, then, in which size is the most useful depends on how much paperwork you would need to transport. The 2-sectioned Tomacelli will only be able to carry very thin folders in addition to a laptop, notebook and newspaper, whereas the 3-sectioned version includes an extra central zipped section. This means that it can hold a greater number of documents and even a slim ring binder if required.

The Tomacelli is then finished with a sturdy carry handle and a detachable/adjustable shoulder strap for added ease. Highly functional, impeccably handcrafted and with a refined style, the Tomacelli briefcase is designed for the modern businessman.

We pride ourselves on sourcing the very finest leather which is then handcrafted by skilled artisans to last a career. In fact, their workmanship and the quality of the materials are reflected in the 25-year warranty that accompanies the Tomacelli. After all, in the heart of Tuscany, our artisans imbue their creations with decades of knowledge. Tuscany is the epicentre of the traditional Italian leather industry. It is here that our artisans have honed their craft through shared knowledge and years of experience.

Alongside this commitment to high-quality workmanship, we only use full-grain vegetable-tanned leather. Full-grain refers to the strongest layer of the cowhide – that is to say the layer farthest away from the flesh. This ensures a close grain pattern which results in a durable and attractive leather. It truly celebrates the natural character of the hide. Importantly, this full grain leather is also from the saddleback, where the fibres are tightest, which means that it is more durable than leather taken from the lower portion of the cow. This, in comparison, is poor quality due to the looser fibres that make up the hide which can swell when wet and are often more marked or wrinkled. Together, this means undeniable quality which is crucial for a briefcase which will last you many more years to come.

In order to preserve the natural beauty of the leather it is vegetable-tanned. Simply, as members of the Genuine Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, we are committed to honouring the traditional process of naturally tanning leather. This environmentally-friendly process has been passed down through the generations. Consequently, it is still a way of life for many in Tuscany. The process can take up to 40 days and requires patience and skill. It is the epitome of sustainable production. More specifically, dyes are extracted from back including chestnut, quebracho and mimosa trees which results in a rich, warm tone. Moreover, as the leather is not chemically sealed it will develop a stunning patina over time. This desirable sheen is cultivated through use and wear, and is the hallmark of the finest quality leather.

The Tomacelli 2-Sectioned Briefcase

Our signature vegetable-tanned full grain Classico leather is available in three colourways: chestnut tan, dark chocolate brown and night black. Night black is our smartest tone and suits if your workplace enforces a strict dress code. Our chestnut tan leather, on the other hand, is the most relaxed and is most apt for smart/casual environments. Lastly, the dark chocolate brown leather is the most versatile shade. It looks classic with smarter looks and also adapts to slightly more contemporary attire.

To reflect the traditional aesthetic of the Tomacelli it is best paired with a classic double-breasted suit and a pair of Oxford brogues – preferably in a matching leather. Nevertheless, in order to ensure that the look remains contemporary, it can be modernised by wearing a subtly patterned shirt without a tie. A check, in particular, is ideal or in this case houndstooth. This is classic tailoring for the modern gentleman.