Italian Pueblo Leather Watch Straps and the Badalassi Carlo Tannery

Where Artisanal Tradition Meets Style

If you've ever marvelled at the richness and sophistication of Italian leather, you'll understand why Italian Pueblo Leather Watch Straps are gaining rapid popularity among discerning watch enthusiasts. But what makes them so special?

Badalassi Carlo: A Legacy of Excellence

At the heart of Italian Pueblo leather lies the esteemed Badalassi tannery, situated in the picturesque landscape of Tuscany, Italy. Founded by Carlo Badalassi in the 1990s, the tannery began its journey in the quaint Italian town of Santa Croce sull’Arno, where a modest workshop marked the humble beginnings of a legacy. Over four decades later, Badalassi Carlo stands as a name synonymous with quality and tradition, proudly upholding the highest standards of production as part of the "Genuine Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather" consortium.

Tuscan Leather Tradition: The Essence of Excellence

The Tuscan Leather District, nestled between the provinces of Florence and Pisa, is renowned as the epicentre of high-quality vegetable-tanned leather production in Italy. Here, traditional methods are meticulously preserved, ensuring that each piece of leather embodies the time-honoured expertise and cultural heritage of the region. Only Badalassi Carlo and the select group of artisan Tuscan tanneries within the consortium bear the prestigious "Pelle Conciata al Vegetale in Toscana" (Tuscan Vegetable-Tanned Leather) trademark—a symbol of authenticity and unparalleled quality.

The Artistry of Pueblo Leather: A Tribute to Tradition

Among the notable leathers produced by Badalassi Carlo, "Badalassi Pueblo" leather stands as a shining example of artisanal craftsmanship. Named in homage to the resilient character of the indigenous peoples of the southwestern USA, Pueblo leather exudes a rugged yet refined charm that captivates the senses.

Pueblo Leather is made using the vachetta method using the raw hides of cows that are over 2 years old. Beginning its journey as supple vegetable-tanned cowhide—known as Badalassi Carlo’s ‘Minerva’ leather—Pueblo leather undergoes a transformative hand-buffing process. This meticulous technique, involving the rolling of iron balls over the surface, imbues the leather with a distinctive, deliberately damaged texture—a hallmark of its unique identity.

Despite its initial roughness, Pueblo leather evolves gracefully over time, developing a smooth, vintage patina that only enhances its character. Offering both ruggedness and elegance in a single package, Pueblo leather embodies the timeless appeal of artisanal tradition.

Characteristics of Pueblo Leather: Quality and Durability

• Tannery: Badalassi Carlo (Italy)
• Rigidity: Semi firm
• Surface: Marled appearance with a rough, napped suede-like texture
• Tanning: Vegetable tan
• Patina: Excellent, deepening colour and sheen over time; rough texture smooths over time
• Durability: Exceptionally durable, ensuring longevity and enduring beauty

How Sustainable is Pueblo Leather?

One of the most remarkable aspects of Italian Pueblo leather is its commitment to sustainability. By utilising by-products of the food industry, leather producers like Badalassi Carlo transform waste into renewable materials, minimising landfill and reducing environmental impact.

Additionally, adhering to strict standards of animal welfare, the tannery sources raw hides exclusively from European farms compliant with EU legislation. Utilising natural vegetable tanning processes and metal-free techniques, Badalassi Carlo ensures that its leather meets the highest environmental standards, preserving the beauty of nature for generations to come.

Furthermore, vegetable-tanned leathers such as Pueblo Leather are long-lasting and repairable.

At the end of its long life, Pueblo leather is recyclable as it can be shredded and used for many different purposes. It’s also biodegradable. As an organic material, it biodegrades into the ground, completing its lifecycle without trace within 10-15 years.

LBS Pueblo Leather Watch Straps: Elevating Timepieces with Italian Elegance

At LBS, we take pride in offering a new collection of premium Italian Pueblo Leather Watch Straps.

Available in Red, Green, Brown and Blue, our straps feature the marled appearance for which Pueblo Leather is renowned. With white contrast stitching, gentle padding, and stylish polished pin buckles in stainless steel, each strap exudes Italian charm and sophistication - an exquisite complement to any timepiece.