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The Paolo 3-Section Briefcase was Maxwell-Scott’s first design. It remains one of our best-selling pieces to this day.
Yet it has never stood still.
Since its introduction in 2002, the Paolo has evolved alongside the modern professional, a journey reflective of the principles outlined in our leather briefcase guide. Over time, we have refined, reinforced, and re-engineered it to meet changing demands while carefully preserving its original character. In doing so, it demonstrates how tradition and progress can coexist.
The Birth of the 3-Section Paolo Briefcase
The idea began in London.
When William Scott Forshaw noticed colleagues carrying plastic bags to the office, he recognised a gap. At that point, it became clear that professionals deserved something better — something enduring, something refined.
Therefore, in 2002, William Scott Forshaw founded Maxwell-Scott Paolo with a single objective, to create a classic leather briefcase built to last an entire career.
Inspired by a lifelong admiration for Italy, William travelled to Tuscany, the heart of traditional leather craftsmanship. After visiting more than 100 factories and tanneries, he partnered with a family-run workshop committed to producing full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather goods.
William Scott sketched the first Paolo Briefcase with purpose:
It was understated, functional and timeless.
That foundation remains unchanged.
The Evolution
Over two decades, the Paolo has been refined through experience and customer feedback. Each change has been deliberate, never cosmetic.
1. A Stronger Lock
The lock sits at the center of Paolo’s design.
We originally sourced the lock from a volume-focused manufacturer, but we later replaced it with a far superior alternative. Today, we invest significantly more in precision-engineered hardware from Alce because we select it for resilience and longevity.
The upgrade reflects a simple philosophy: durability over compromise. In other words, performance takes precedence over cost-saving. Even so, the external aesthetic remains unchanged.
2. Reinforced Stitching
Double stitching now runs around the case, strengthening the structure to support the weight of modern essentials, including laptops and documents.
It is a subtle change, but one that significantly extends the briefcase’s lifespan.
3. Strengthened Lining and Base Panels
We have reinforced the lining and base panels to improve resilience and maintain Paolo’s structured form.
Consequently, these unseen improvements ensure the briefcase retains composure under daily use.
4. Redesigned Organiser Panel
Professional life has evolved since 2002.
We redesigned the organiser panel to accommodate modern essentials, now including a dedicated phone sleeve alongside pen slots and business card holders.
Therefore, functionality has evolved in step with changing routines. At the same time, the original aesthetic remains intact.
5. Improved Side Fixtures
We strengthened and riveted the side fixtures to bolster structural integrity, an essential enhancement for a case designed to carry weight consistently.
6. Refined Shoulder Strap
We widened the detachable shoulder strap, fitted it with stronger hardware, and lined it with suede for improved comfort.
Therefore, these improvements elevate practicality. At the same time, the classic profile remains intact.
7. Upgraded Zips
We now use YKK Excella metal zips, selected for their reliability and smooth performance.
Indeed, small details define long-term quality.
8. Enhanced Lining Materials
The interior lining now combines cloth and raw leather, elevating both durability and aesthetic refinement.
Consequently, the interior mirrors the standards of the exterior. Moreover, this considered pairing reinforces Paolo’s overall integrity. In turn, these refinements support longevity from the inside out.
The Continuity of Quality
Despite these refinements, the Paolo’s foundation has never changed.
Each piece is handcrafted from full-grain leather, selected from the strongest portion of the hide. As a result, this dense fibre structure ensures durability and a natural character that cannot be replicated by corrected or split leather.
The leather is vegetable-tanned using traditional methods passed down through generations in Tuscany. Natural tannins derived from tree bark, including chestnut and mimosa, give the leather its rich tone and allow it to develop a distinctive patina over time.
This process is slower. More demanding. And intentionally preserved.
To learn more about the craftsmanship behind our materials, visit our guide to Italian leather craft.
The Current Specifications
How to Style the Paolo Briefcase
The Paolo was conceived for the corporate environment. Its structured form pairs naturally with tailored suiting, yet it adapts equally well to knitwear or a more relaxed professional uniform.
Its strength lies in versatility.
Whether carried into a formal meeting or through an airport terminal, it conveys quiet authority rather than overt display.
For a broader view of our designs, explore our collection of:
