Aging a vintage bag

[Lyra_bumble]

Hey all,

I have what looks like either a fake or real alligator bag, it’s really delicate so I’m thinking it could be pretty old. It has no markings anywhere so I’ve got nothing but how it looks to go off.

any help would be appreciated in finding its age or anything about it.

 

[dollsntrolls]

The handle and kiss-lock closure look 50s - 60s to me. However, a lot of reptile bags were made in the 1980s, as many countries lifted previous restrictions on the import and export of some reptile skins. If you want to clean it and keep it in good shape, I recommend using a leather conditioner specifically made for reptile skin. Unless, if you are able to determine if it may be pressed cow or other common leather to mimic reptile (due to the previously mentioned ban), then condition as you would a shoe.

 

[GemGem]

I think it’s Crocodile leather & genuine due to the slight irregularities & uneven grooves. If you look at real crocodile leather v crocodile ‘embossed’ leather on a Google search you should be able to spot the difference.

I also think it looks 50’s-60’s. The 80’s may have made similar ones too though.

 

[Lyra_bumble]

Ooh thanks ! I was hoping to take it somewhere to get it checked but no idea where

 

[GemGem]

Ooh thanks ! I was hoping to take it somewhere to get it checked but no idea where

I’d just take it to someone who sells vintage specifically. Maybe a local vintage store. If they have a lot of experience they should be able to help. Most people are in vintage for the love not the money.