Thank you so much for your kind words, longchamper!
I tried to get photos over which the most questions were asked. The color is very close to the first 5 photos. Depending on the light it is a very dark gray, but the photo of the back makes it look black. I don't find it too terribly heavy on its own, but with all my stuff in it it is quite heavy. The iPad on its own weighs it down, but not enough to bother me. I agree that this is one of those bags that really needs to be in a collection. I don't have too many bags as I sold a bunch during the recession to pay bills, but the ones I have are classy keepers.
Oh, and not enough can be said about the leather. It is so buttery and soft (almost velvety), but still thick and substantial. It's been a long time since I was blown away by quality and workmanship, but I am truly amazed by this bag.