For Hanukkah, my wife gave me a Billykirk Designs Large Carryall bag that resembles an old timey doctor’s bag with the hinged closure mechanism. Made of durable waxed cotton with leather trim, it’s my favorite bag I’ve ever owned. The hand craftsmanship is impeccable and the design is timeless. The founders studied under a third-generation leather maker in California and eventually purchased some of his century-old machines. Now that I’ve lost a few waist sizes (thanks, Tim Ferriss/4-Hour Body!), I’m in the market for a new belt. Again, I want something classic and durable because I’m a one-belt guy, and it needs to last for years. And years. I was happy to see that Billykirk makes great-looking belts too. Their Claw Buckle Belt seen here is based on an old rifle sling, but I’m leaning toward the unique Hidden Buckle/Mechanics Belt above. The Billykirk founders’ leather teacher used to make the belts for the auto industry in the 1950s. Why? The buckle is covered by the strap so that when the mechanic leans in to work on the engine, the hardware doesn’t scratch the auto paint. Apparently, guitarists dig these too because it protects the back of their axes. Billkirk Designs’ products aren’t cheap — the bag is $340 and the belts are around $150 — but I think that’s absolutely worth it for the quality and style. These days, Billykirk has outsourced some to Amish leather workers in Pennsylvania!
Billykirk Designs
