Glossary · Materials
Vitello Barenia Faubourg
Definition
Barenia Faubourg is Hermès' exceptional leather—a French vegetable-tanned calf that epitomizes Parisian leather craftsmanship tradition. When I discovered this hide, I was struck by its dense structure and remarkable ability to develop a golden patina over time. It is full-grain calf, slowly tanned with vegetable tannins, creating a robust and deeply tactile surface. For a watch strap, Barenia Faubourg is demanding: it requires conscious maintenance because the leather breathes and changes appearance naturally. On a Rolex Datejust 36mm or vintage dress watch, it's a choice of character—one that accepts visible, magnificent aging. The grain is fine but irregular; natural colors vary batch to batch. Not an "easy" leather, but for those appreciating authenticity and the value of time, it's simply incomparable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a Barenia Faubourg strap on a 40mm Rolex Submariner?
Yes, Barenia Faubourg adapts perfectly to a 40mm Submariner, though it's unconventional. The dense, robust leather handles the watch's sportiness excellently, and the golden patina that develops contrasts beautifully against the bezel's black. The only aspect is accepting that on a sports watch, the leather will show wear and aging more visibly. If you wear it on bracelet often, you'll change straps frequently; if you desire it as a "statement" strap, Barenia is perfect.
Does Barenia Faubourg require special maintenance?
Absolutely yes. Unlike chromium-tanned or synthetic leathers, Barenia breathes and absorbs moisture naturally. I recommend brushing it periodically with a soft brush to remove dust and sea salt, and conditioning it every 3-4 months with light natural creams—never silicones. If you live in humid climates, avoid leaving it wet; dry it gently. The patina it develops is the reward: every scratch, every color shift tells your watch's story. On a vintage Omega Seamaster or an IWC Pilot, this maintenance becomes ritual.
What strap sizes are available in Barenia Faubourg?
We work Barenia Faubourg in all standard sizes: 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 22mm. On a vintage Patek Philippe Calatrava 36mm, 18mm is perfect for dress proportions. On a Rolex Explorer 40mm or Explorer II, 20mm is ideal. For collectors of classic '60s-'70s watches, 19mm offers an elegant compromise between vintage and modern. Each size is hand-cut and hand-stitched with naturally dyed silk, to maintain aesthetic coherence with the leather's quality.
The next step
The right strap isn't chosen. It is built, together.
From the atelier appointment to delivery, every step is made for those who know that things done well take time. Rare leathers, one piece at a time, eighteen months of warranty.
Request an appointment →Casati Milano · Via XX Settembre 15, Milan · by appointment only