Leather and brass are unique materials because they change with use, gaining deeper color and a richer character over time. The leather used in TRAVELER’S COMPANY and TRAVELER’S FACTORY leather products and the solid brass used in BRASS PRODUCTS are carefully crafted so you can enjoy this natural aging process. With daily use, each item will change to reflect your habits and experiences.
Let’s examine how TRAVELER’S notebooks, TRAVELER’S FACTORY leather items, and BRASS PRODUCTS develop patina over time.
TRAVELER’S notebook
The leather used for TRAVELER’S notebook is minimally processed to preserve its natural texture. As you handle it each day, natural oils from your hands help the color deepen, and the surface develop a soft sheen. The patina will vary from one TRAVELER’S notebook to another based on how it is used and the unique characteristics of the leather.
You can enjoy the aging process of TRAVELER’S notebook without special care. If you are concerned about scratches or dryness, you can use a leather care cream like Renapur Leather Balsam. Leather care creams can deepen the leather’s color, add sheen, and help make small scratches less noticeable.
Over time, you may notice changes in color and shine across different TRAVELER’S notebook colors, such as black, brown, camel, blue, olive, and red. Wrinkles and light scratches are part of the character of leather and show the story of how the item has been used over time.
Leather items
TRAVELER’S FACTORY also offers leather accessories made with the same leather as TRAVELER’S notebook. Items like the TRAVELER’S FACTORY Glasses Case, Book Cover, Leather Zipper Case, Wallets, and Keychains are items used every day, so they develop patina quickly and become more distinctive with time.
TRC BRASS PENS and PENCIL
BRASS PRODUCTS, such as the TRC BRASS FOUNTAIN PEN, are made from solid brass without plating. This lets the surface of the brass change naturally over time. Small scratches are part of the charm, so don’t hesitate to use it every day.
After years of use, solid brass oxidizes and shifts to a deeper tone. The exact color will vary depending on how you use and store the pen, which gives each piece its own character.
BRASS PRODUCTS also includes other solid brass writing instruments, including the TRC BRASS ROLLERBALL PEN, TRC BRASS BALLPOINT PEN, and TRC BRASS PENCIL. Since these writing instruments are made with the same solid brass, they develop a similar patina with use.
TRC BRASS RULER
The TRC BRASS RULER is also made from solid brass. The ruler markings are etched into the surface, creating a clean, engraved look. When new, it has a bright golden shine, but with continued use, the color becomes deeper, giving it the look of a well-used vintage tool.
As the brass darkens, the etched markings often become easier to see.
TRC BRASS PENCASE
This minimalist TRC BRASS PENCASE is made from a solid brass sheet, pressed into shape with a lid and body. Its smooth curves reflect the skill of Tokyo craftspeople specializing in metal pressing. With regular use, the surface develops scratches and patina, creating an antique-like finish over time.
As oxidation continues, the brass shifts to a deeper color. The case gradually shows the history of use and specifically becomes a personal reflection of your use over time.
Care for Brass Using Abrasive Metal Polish
If you want to bring back the original shine of brass, you can polish it with a metal polish such as Brasso. The image shows the right half of a brass ruler after polishing. Please note that when using polishing products, follow the instructions, work in a well-ventilated area, and wear protective gloves.
Patina is part of what makes leather and solid brass so rewarding to use, turning everyday tools into a record of your daily life. With simple care and regular use, each TRAVELER’S notebook and BRASS PRODUCT will continue to deepen in character and become uniquely yours.
Have a nice trip!
