MILAN STRAPS · SWIFT
Swift Calfskin — Hermès' Leather for the Wrist
Frequently asked questions
What is Vitello Swift and which animal does it come from?
Vitello Swift is calf leather with natural Fleur finish, chrome-tanned using French technique. It's the leather Hermès uses for its most renowned creations. Available in straps from 18 to 22mm lug width, starting from €120.
How do you clean and care for a Vitello Swift strap?
Soft, dry cloth once a month. For surface scratches, just rub with your finger — Swift reabsorbs them on its own. Every 2-3 months, a neutral cream for chrome-tanned leather. No direct water, no prolonged sun exposure.
Does Vitello Swift develop patina over time like Barenia?
No. Swift maintains its color over time — the Fleur finish remains stable. It doesn't develop the amber patina of Barenia. Surface scratches reabsorb with a cloth pass. It ages gracefully, but without dramatic transformations. Available from 18 to 22mm, prices from €120.
Can I order a custom Swift strap at the Milan atelier?
At Via XX Settembre 15, Milan, you choose the leather together — the strap is born on the watch, not before. By appointment only, via WhatsApp or in-person at the atelier.
Which watches pair best with a Vitello Swift strap?
Swift works well on watches with mixed character — neither too formal nor too sporty. The Breitling Superocean ref. A17316D21A1S1 and Franck Muller Casablanca ref. 5850 are two pairings that work. Both at 18mm. Straps start from €120.
Why does a Vitello Swift strap start at €120?
Chrome tanning is the reason. It guarantees dimensional stability, water resistance and scratch resistance superior to vegetable-tanned leather. A leather with these characteristics has a production cost that reflects in the final price: €120.
Does Vitello Swift develop patina over time?
No, not like Barenia. Swift maintains its original color over time — it doesn't develop that amber patina some collectors seek. It ages gracefully, adapts to the wrist, but remains recognizable. Available from 18 to 22mm, from €120.
Does Vitello Swift withstand water and wrist moisture?
It handles wrist moisture well — better than barenia or vegetable-tanned leather. Chrome tanning guarantees superior stability. In case of water contact, a quick pass with a soft cloth is sufficient. Available from 18 to 22mm, from €120.
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 →What we offer
- We guide you through every step — with exclusive images directly from our atelier
- Over 50 artisanal steps for each strap — from leather selection to final stitching
- The time it takes to do extraordinary things — four, five weeks. Not a day less.
- An object designed to last a lifetime — cared for by us for eighteen months
- The right leather for your watch — chosen together, in the atelier, only for you
By appointment only · Milan