Shell Cordovan is the top tier leather available, before the category of exotics. It comes from the hind of a horse, and because the fibres are packed so densely together, the leather that results from that is incredibly durable. While Shell Cordovan is usually a stiff leather, when made in the Slim style, it is very flexible and a great companion to your dress watch.
The Shell Cordovan we use comes from Shinki Hikaku tannery in Japan. Typical of most shell cordovan, it has a high gloss finish. Unique to Shinki Shell, the surface is extremely uniform and clean, with a beautiful depth of colour. This leather is so durable that it is likely to last as long as your mechanical timepiece!
Excerpt from Strap Guide by Tom: "The earliest known use cases for Shell Cordovan leather was in armour breast plates and shields of the 7th century. It's non-porous and non-creasing surface and ability to maintain oils from the tanning process made it superior to most leathers in term of both durability and water resistance. Today it is mostly appreciated for its natural and unmistakable shine and is mostly used in quality shoes and boots. The Cognac color gives the Tank a quite casual but still elegant look."
