Our Leather & Product Care
Tuscan Vachetta Leather
For the Heritage Collection Laujé uses the finest Vachetta leather, crafted from hides of French origin. Vachetta leather is a premium, vegetable tanned leather prized for its soft, supple texture and natural beauty.
Our Vachetta leather is tanned naturally in Tuscany. For this traditional Tuscan tanning method, natural tannin extracts from Quebracho and Mimosa trees are used, providing the leather with a firm structure and good elasticity.
Our Vachetta leather is finished by hand and painted with stunning aniline colours which add shine, transparency and enhance the natural appearance of the leather.
To establish the best possible interior for your beloved timepieces, the inside of our Heritage Collection pieces are lined with the finest quality Italian tanned suede. Our suede is distinguished by a great softness and a velvety aesthetic.
As a result of this artisanal handcrafted leathers, every single piece of Laujé's Heritage Collection is fully unique and one of a kind.
Due to its vegetable tanning process, Vachetta leather develops a rich patina over time, reflecting its journey with you. Caring for Vachetta leather requires some love and a bit of patience, but the reward is a long-lasting, uniquely beautiful piece that reflects both the artisan’s craftsmanship and your personal journey. By following these simple care steps, your Vachetta leather Laujé piece will continue to accompany you in style for many years, only growing in beauty and value.
UNDERSTANDING VACHETTA LEATHER
Vachetta leather is vegetable-tanned and untreated, making it more sensitive to environmental factors such as sunlight, moisture, and oils. This natural leather will darken and soften with use, creating a patina that reflects its journey with you. The aging process of Vachetta leather is one of its most beloved characteristics, giving your piece a distinguished look over time.
PROTECTING YOUR LAUJÉ PIECE
Since Vachetta leather is absorbent, it is important to take precautions to avoid stains and discoloration:
- Avoid water contact: Exposure to moisture or damp environments can cause water stains. If your piece does get wet, pat it dry with a soft cloth immediately. Never use a hairdryer or heater, as it can dry out and damage the leather.
- Prevent contact with oils, perfumes and lotions: Be cautious when handling your watch roll with oily hands, as Vachetta leather easily absorbs oils from skin, which can leave stains.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and direct sources of heat: Prolonged sun exposure can cause the leather to darken prematurely and unevenly. Exposure to direct sources of heat (e.g. radiators or overheated car interiors) could dry out and damage the leather.
CLEANING VACHETTA LEATHER
In order to maintain the pristine condition of your Vachetta leather Laujé piece, regular aftercare is advised.
- Dust and surface cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to gently wipe down the surface of the watch roll. Never use water, soaps or solvents.
- Removing stains: For light stains, you can use a mild, pH-neutral leather cleaner. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth and gently rub in circular motions. Avoid using harsh chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners, as they can damage the leather.
STORAGE TIPS
Proper storage will help maintain the shape and appearance of your Vachetta leather piece.
When not in use, place your Laujé piece in its original dust bag to protect it from dust and light while allowing the leather to breathe. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew.
Store your protective piece in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Excess humidity can damage the leather.
APPRECIATING THE PATINA
Your Vachetta leather Laujé piece is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The leather is carefully selected and meticulously crafted by skilled artisans to ensure durability, luxury, and timeless appeal. With proper care, your Laujé piece will age gracefully, becoming softer and more beautiful with every use. One of the unique aspects of Vachetta leather is its ability to develop a rich patina over time. This deepening colour and slight sheen add character to your Laujé piece and make it truly one-of-a-kind. Embrace the patina as a natural and beautiful process that tells the story of your journey together.