I visited several of my favourite stores whilst back in London over Christmas, although I was so engrossed in each visit that I didn’t end up with much time to take photos. However, luckily enough, I did manage to get a few snaps at George Cleverley. You would have seen me mention them a few times in previous posts, especially following my last visit (see here).

On this occasion, I was focused on experiencing their range of lasts to better understand the nuances of their offering. I hear GC are engaged in a new business venture in Melbourne launching soon, but more of that to come later.

Whilst there, I was lucky enough to check out some 1786 Russian reindeer leather, retrieved after 200 years under the sea. The ship was bound for the Mediterranean with cargo of hemp and leather from the Russian port of St. Petersburg. It sunk after capsizing, although the crew managed to escape to shore. Divers later found bundles of hides on the seabed, preserved in the black mud. Many of the hides have now been brought back to the surface and tanned using the original traditional Russian method, soaking in pits of willow bark and currying in birch oil.

George Cleverley now produces briefcases, wallets and even certain shoes, with this very leather. It was interesting to see first hand – I will say, it had quite a distinct aroma.

Anyway, below are a few photos I took after picking up a few shoe care pieces. Enjoy.

Dashing Tweeds Case

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