The Process
Following our acquisition of historic British trunk maker, Brexton, the process of commissioning us to produce anything, from a single reproduction suitcase to a complete set of bespoke luggage, follows the same route of design, specification, production and delivery that was employed by Brexton when they began producing for Rolls-Royce and Bentley in 1920.
DESIGN
The most popular design requests from classic car owners is for reproductions of the luggage that would've been offered as an option with their vehicle when new.
Provided that we have a pattern for the particular luggage set, and the trunk space of the car has not been modified, the cases can be produced without the need to take measurements.
This applies to the following models:
Alfa Romeo: Guilletta Sprint Speciale.
Citroen: SM.
Facel Vega: Facel III; Facel 6; Facellia; HK500.
Ferrari: Daytona; 250 Lusso; 330 GT2+2
Jaguar: XK120; XK140; XK150; Mk I; Mk II; S-Type; 420; E-Type Coupé & Roadster.
Mercedes-Benz: 170S; 220; 300S & 300SC; Ponton; 190SL; 300SL Gullwing & Roadster ; Pagoda; W100 Series (100-113); W186,188,189.
Peugeot: 203 Cabriolet.
Porsche: 356; 911 Classic (1964-73).
Volkswagen: Beetle; Karmann Ghia.
If a bespoke commission is required, it will be necessary for one of our representatives to take detailed measurements of the luggage space. This can be arranged by appointment throughout the UK and across North America.
Alternatively, we may have access to an identical marque and model through our network of customers and classic car dealerships, allowing us to obtain the necessary measurements locally.
Once the dimensions of the space have been established, the design of the cases can begin, with guidance from Brexton and welcome input from the client.
SPECIFICATION
Following agreement on product design, the selection of materials is determined. Brexton offers a wide range of options for case covering, which includes leathercloth, calfskin and canvas. Special colours and finishes can be made to order, or the client may wish to provide the same hide that has been used to upholster the car.
The lining material must also be specified, and is usually influenced by highlights from the car's interior - particularly when tartan cloth has been used as a seat covering or West of England cloth as a headlining.
Finally, the hardware and trim details are an important consideration, with the locks, hinges and buckles available in either brass or nickel with satin or polished finish.
PRODUCTION
With design and specification signed off, production can begin. The lead time is generally 6-8 weeks following receipt of the material components.
The luggage will be manufactured in one of three locations depending upon product type, with traditional hard-sided trunks and cases crafted in our French atelier, soft-sided bags in Italy, and handmade bespoke pieces in our workshop in England.
Our skilled team of artisans have unrivalled experience in the production of luxury leathergoods, displaying peerless levels of craftsmanship and enormous pride in their work.
DELIVERY
Wherever possible, Brexton prefers to provide a white-glove delivery service, both to ensure that the client is perfectly satisfied and also to share the enjoyment of seeing the finishing touches being added to a precious vehicle's restoration or refurbishment.
A worldwide shipping service is also available should delivery in person prove to be impractical.
Please do not hesitate to Contact Us if you would like further information.