875 : the patina monster
Bought these 2nd hand for a third of retail price.
When I pulled the trigger they were supposed to be like in the 3rd picture.
Unfortunately, they came to my door over conditioned, really wet to the touch and very dark.
I just asked the seller what product he used to apply.
He answered RW Leather Cream which was a relief because I feared they had been covered of mink oil.
So I did several gentle cleaning sessions with Saphir leather cleaning lotion.
A very quick saddle soap application was required on the right toe plate because it remained dark brown.
Once the pores of the leather showed, I stopped cleaning and let fully dry overnight.
Then the leather didn’t feel tacky anymore and I was left with that automnal color which I find extremely desirable.
A smear of Saphir lotion for oiled leather to rehydrate, a lot of brushing and finally some (supposedly) protective RW leather protector.
Of course, a lot of effort was put in interior desinfection, eyelets verdigris removal and welt/sole/laces rejuvenating.
I couldn’t be happier with the result thanks to that glorious gradient patina.
Happy Moctober to all !