I have both bags! I have the RM Mini in Saddle and the JY Sherlock in black.
In terms of quality, I would say both are very high. Unfortunately, I can't comment too much on quality differences, because I haven't worn my RM very much (maybe 1-2 times, versus JY everyday for the last 2 weeks).
Some other comments:
- If you get a smooshier leather for the RM (like I have), it may need to be "babied" a little more. I'm always afraid I'll scratch up the leather, since it's so soft! The Sherlock (at least the black color, which I believe is supposed to be a little sturdier) has a nice pebbled leather, which will hold up well to all sorts of weather and carrying around everywhere.
- I'm also sort of worried about handle issues that other people have had with their older RMs (supposedly those issues have been fixed for the newer ones). Since I'll probably be throwing the handles on my mini over my shoulder a lot (they don't sell straps for Saddle, I don't think), I'm afraid that the wear and tear will cause some failure there.
- I'm not used to big bags, and the RM is definitely heavier (with the old hardware - maybe the new hardware is lighter) and larger than the Sherlock. Plus, it's more of a pain to carry, IMO, because it doesn't come with a shoulder strap.
- I am using the Sherlock as my "everyday" bag because it's not too big and a little more practical to use all the time (and it's just so darned cute!). I'll probably use the RM bag for more special occasions.
So, I guess I'm leaning a little bit more towards JY (more because I like shoulder straps and smaller bags).
But I really do love both bags!
I have the Gatsby and use it for work. As the above poster said the RM bag is a bit awkward to carry.. although I still love & use mine. I can't wait to get a Sherlock at some point! I am a person who carries less and does well with smaller bags though.
