Samuel Wachira crafted a vintage brown leather wallet for Salomon, infusing it with elegant practicality and modern needs. What's your wish?
A request by Salomon from Thun, Schweiz
Good day
I am also looking for a wallet made of genuine leather. The color should be brown, but not shiny, but rather vintage, e.g. cowhide. I have added a photo attached so that you can roughly recognize the style. I also need at least two note compartments, if possible a third one with a zipper. I don’t need a coin pocket, but a holder for an Apple AirTag would be great. Three card slots should be sufficient, but these should be RFID-protected if this is not already ensured by the cowhide leather.
Is this possible?
The Journey of Creating Custom made Vintage Brown Leather Wallet
Negotiation & Planning
Hello Salomon!
I am Samuel, and I'd like to realize your idea. I have taken note of your specifications which are attainable. I have a few questions.
1. I noticed in the first picture, there is a flap overlapping the card slots. What's its function and is it part of your requirements?
2. You said you don't need a coin pocket but an Apple Airtag pocket. Do you want the pocket to be the same size as the coin pocket shown in the pictures?
3. Would you consider a custom name or text printed on the cover or inner side of the wallet?
Hello Samuel
Thank you for your message.
1. no, I don't actually want a flap. The wallet should be as flat as possible. In the picture, I was only interested in the music compartment with zipper. I would like 2 note compartments and if possible a third additional note compartment with zipper.
2. the compartment should be exactly the size of the AirTag. The position doesn't matter.
3. why not, that would be a nice addition.
I just need to know how much it will cost before you start production. (Automatic translation)
Hi Salomon, thanks for the comprehensive explanation. My suggestion for printing would be a name, phrase or an image. Which ones would you like and on what part?
Crafting Process
Artisan’s Progress Updates
Hello, I have been waiting for your feedback for the reply below that I wrote on 27th of July. Did you see it?
"Hi Salomon, thanks for the comprehensive explanation. My suggestion for printing would be a name, phrase or an image. Which ones would you like and on what part?"
Oh sorry. I still like my initials on the bottom right of the lid. Easy to read, but not too big. My initials are: S.H. (Automatic translation)
Ok, then. A 20mm is good height for thd ninitials.
Yes, that's good. (Automatic translation)
Hi Salomon, I am working on the wallet already. I'll post an update photo tomorrow.
Good day!
super (Automatic translation)
Hi Salomon. I have posted photos of parts that I'll be putting up together. The RFID protective cladding will be hidden under the lining of the wallet.
Good evening!
👍 (Automatic translation)
Hi Salomon, I hope your weeked was great. I couldn't deliver the wallet on Saturday unfortunately, there was a fault on the wallet as I was finishing, my machine malfunctioned and damaged the wallet. I couldn't reach you because this system doesnt allow me to update you if you have not replied to the last post. If you would allow me, I could deliver a fresh wallet on Wednesday, since I've gotten the machine fixed today.
Thanks in advance
Hello Samuel
Oh no, I'm sorry for you. It's not a problem for me. That can happen. I'm not in a hurry! Just take your time.
Best regards (Automatic translation)
Thanks for understanding
👍🏼 (Automatic translation)
Hi Salomon, I hope the week's looking bright. I'have updated the photos but have left out the face for I'll be engraving it tomorrow before handing it over. I hope you will be able to reply early enough for me to able to give the final update.
Hello Samuel
That looks very nice! What address did you get from me? My current address is:
Salomon Hersche
Buechallme 2
3608 Thun
Switzerland (Automatic translation)
Hi Salomon, I have updated the face of the wallet with initials. Vickie will facilitate the shipping for the provided address.
Its been a pleasure serving you.
Thank you Samuel!
I'm excited about the product! Thank you for the effort and time you put in! I was very pleased with the airy updates! (Automatic translation)
Hey Salomon,
This is Vicky, the local operations manager, I received your wallet and did the quality check to ensure that everything is in perfect condition before we go ahead with shipping.
Samuel used sturdy yet soft leather that feels great in hand and promises to age beautifully over time. The clean stitching shows careful attention to detail, making it both stylish and durable for everyday use. The card slots and zippered compartment are well-designed, providing plenty of room without adding bulk and the Airtag fits snugly into its dedicated slot, blending seamlessly into the sleek and minimal design, making this wallet not only practical but also effortlessly cool!
I have also shared more photos here, please go through them and let us know what you think.
Best regards,
Vicky Achieng.
Thank you very much Vicky. I am very satisfied and curious how it will be when it is with me. Thank you for everything and God bless. (Automatic translation)
Final Delivery – The Completed Piece in Photos
Customer Photos After Delivery
The Finished Unique Piece – Individually Handmade
Reference: ON014359E-67999
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Price | |
|---|---|
| Cost of material |
20.8
|
| Cost of labour |
22.79
|
| Cost of packaging |
3.68
|
| Cost of delivery to local operations manager |
6.62
|
| Subtotal – payout to artisan |
53.89
|
| Customer acquisition costs (advertising etc.) |
5.39
|
| Handling fee Urban Change Lab |
5.39
|
| Shipping costs from Kenya to Schweiz* |
25.31
|
| VAT (Schweiz)* |
12.29
|
| Total |
107.08
|
*Shipping costs and VAT vary depending on your location.
