Is it just me, or do any of you feel the leather on the large tan Gucci horsebit looks like a big sheet of vinyl, like a car seat? I believe Gucci changed the leather in 05 and earlier versions are different. Here's my story:
I ordered the black from BG last year on the recommendation of a friend who saw both the back and tan IRL. She noticed a real difference between the two leathers and advised the black was nicer, so I ordered it even though the tan color was my first choice. Last week, BG was nice enough to let me send the black back in exchange for the tan. I figured I would take my chances with the leather since the black was getting no use anyway. I thought - it's Gucci, how bad can it be? And lo and behold - my friiend was right about the difference! The black was indeed thicker and softer with some natural markings. When I pulled the tan out of the box I fell instantly in love with the color and in absolute disgust with the leather! It is completely flat and lifeless! I won't return it since the s/a was absolutely the sweetest most accommodating woman to exchange a bag for a customer a year after purchase. But honestly, I can't believe Gucci can slap a $1495 price tag on what I feel is completely substandard leather. I m afraid if I ever tried to ebay this bag it might be mistaken for a fake! Pics do it more justice than real life, but take a look: