A fantastic boutique has just sent me photos of the two NVT oak Bays...es that it has in stock, and for some reason I just can't seem to choose one. One candidate has "more obvious grain throughout," the other has "less grain on the flap."
My first instinct was to go with Contestant #1 (love tactile leather, am annoyed by oddly smooth patch on my Roxy flap) but the more I look at the photos the more I wonder how well the grainier bag is going to age. I've seen photos of grainy oak Bays with lovely and supple patinas, but I've also seen some that look like elephant skin after a dust storm. It's possible (very likely) that I'm overthinking this, but the boutique doesn't take returns, so better safe than sorry.
The first two photos are of #1, the next two of #2. Which do you prefer-- opinions are much appreciated!!
My first instinct was to go with Contestant #1 (love tactile leather, am annoyed by oddly smooth patch on my Roxy flap) but the more I look at the photos the more I wonder how well the grainier bag is going to age. I've seen photos of grainy oak Bays with lovely and supple patinas, but I've also seen some that look like elephant skin after a dust storm. It's possible (very likely) that I'm overthinking this, but the boutique doesn't take returns, so better safe than sorry.
The first two photos are of #1, the next two of #2. Which do you prefer-- opinions are much appreciated!!