Old Gladstone-style bag, keep or chuck?

[jnong]

Hello!

I have this Gladstone bag my parents brought from China; I was wondering whether or not I should bring it with me to college when I return soon (perhaps for weekend trips or something). Is this something you would carry or something you wouldn't be caught dead holding? There are several scratches, scuff marks, and stains.

The leather is quite hard, and the leather for the front appears to be different from that of the sides. I can't figure out what kind of leather from which it's made. The bag looks to be very similar to the one sold here http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VINTAGE-L...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557, and in fact, except for the lining (which on mine is a dark brown), it could be the very same.

Thanks for your help. Below are some pictures.

Front:


Front detail:


Side:


Side detail:

 

[Count de Monet]

As for me, I like the look of a vintage, knocked around weekender or Gladstone style bag. Yours is a good looking bag with "character" in my eyes If the hardware is in good order and smells okay on the inside, what's not to like?

The downside to cool looking but heavy leather bags is that when fully loaded they can be a hassle to tote around big airports, particularly without a shoulder strap. But, if mostly used for car or train travel, that isn't an issue.

I'd get a good leather conditioner that doesn't darken the leather (unless that's what you want) and make sure the leather gets hydrated. Beyond that, you are good to go for years. Enjoy it in good health and good luck in school this fall. And look forward to adding your own "scratches, scuff marks, and stains" to your bag in the future.

 

[jnong]

Thank you for your advice!

 

[chobochobo]

I have a old Gladstone similar to that that I don't use and just use it to store my shoe cleaning stuff. I also have a sab Gladstone that is gorgeous but doesn't get used because there are more practical options for travel. I would say no to taking it to college.