Many people wonder what “Russian Calf Leather” is and why it is so expensive. Today, we will share some knowledge about this special leather and introduce some of its products.
Baker Russian Calf leather is a modern recreation of a historic, highly valued leather first made in 18th-century Russia. Recreated by J. & F.J. Baker & Co., the last traditional oak bark tannery in the UK, located in Devon, England, it was established in the late 1700s and exported its products throughout Europe. Known for its durability, water resistance, rich color, and distinct aroma from birch oil in tanning, it was rediscovered in the 1970s. A shipment was famously found in the wreck of the ship, which sank near Plymouth in 1786, preserved underwater for nearly 200 years.
Baker Company took on the task of reproducing Russian calf leather at the request of a major fashion house. However, since the original recipe was lost, they spent five years studying the few remaining authentic Russian calf leather samples, along with historical documents and related materials, before successfully recreating it. This leather is both labor-intensive to produce and limited in availability, making it a rare material.
Now, we understand why it is so rare and costly: it is valued for its craftsmanship and heritage, produced in limited quantities, blending historical authenticity with modern quality. Let us see what we have created this time!
2025 BAKER RUSSIAN CALF / GROUNDER・・・¥121,000(incl. tax)
(This is available at our WILDSWANS support&gallery store.)
We can clearly see a cross-hatch pattern (embossed grain) on the leather. This is because they are using traditional oak bark tanning, which is a slow, months-long process that produces highly durable, supple, and beautiful leather. Baker has recreated the Russian calf leather using historical techniques, including Birch oil infusion (which adds a smoky, earthy scent and water resistance), hand-finishing, and embossing (with the traditional cross-hatch or hatch grain pattern).
2025 BAKER RUSSIAN CALF / SPANKER1・・・¥134,200(incl. tax)
(This is available at our WILDSWANS support&gallery store.)
In the SPANKER I two-fold wallet, this leather initially provides exceptional stiffness and structure, thanks to deep tanning, generous oiling, and the fullness of the grain. Over time, it deepens in color, darkens, the surface gains luster, and it feels soft but maintains its sturdy backbone. The material also features a distinctive hue known as Russian Brown, along with a subtle diamond-pattern grain and a strong leather aroma. This results in a wallet that has a unique presence: sizable yet refined, rugged yet beautiful.
2025 BAKER RUSSIAN CALF / ENO・・・¥137,500(incl. tax)
In the ENO three‑fold wallet, Baker’s Russian Calf leather combines portability, durability, and a refined patina. Despite its compact size, it offers enough storage, multiple card slots, a divided coin pouch, and a large bill compartment—all in distinctive leather. By undergoing extended, meticulous tanning and deep fat-liquoring, the leather attains exceptional elasticity without sacrificing its strong, resilient firmness. The wallet’s weight and presence remind you that it’s sturdy, not fragile, but designed to age gracefully.
2025 BAKER RUSSIAN CALF / PALM-V2・・・¥84,700(incl. tax)
The PALM-V2 wallet features leather that combines elegance and character in a compact design. Its rich Russian Brown tones deepen over time, and oils and waxes from the long tanning process give it initial stiffness and a unique smell. Though small, it is made to hold coins, bills, and a few cards. As the PALM‑V2 ages, it softens slightly: the grain becomes softer, the color gains a subtle gloss, and the leather’s structure stays strong even after daily use.
2025 BAKER RUSSIAN CALF / kf-003・・・¥90,200(incl. tax)
The kf-003 is a compact wallet made from exquisite Baker Russian Calf leather, a material known for its rarity and character. It reproduces the traditional “Russian Calf” hide, tanned over extended periods and richly infused with oils and waxes, which add strength, resilience, and a unique aroma. KF-003’s design features a flap-closure coin case with a divider, along with a notes section that has a curved center to prevent bills from slipping out. Over time, the leather darkens and gains a shiny finish, with its initial firmness gradually softening into a smooth, aged appearance.
2025 BAKER RUSSIAN CALF / TONGUE・・・¥55,000(incl. tax)
(This is available at our WILDSWANS support&gallery store.)
The TONGUE by WILDSWANS is a compact coin case for coins, cards, and notes, with a secure flap and a divided coin pocket with gussets for easy access. It features a rear pocket for cards. Made from Baker Russian Calf, it offers rigidity, a smoky, waxy aroma, diamond-embossed grain, wax bloom, and develops a rich patina over time.
Baker Russian Calf Leather is a carefully crafted version of 18th-century Russian leather, made by J. & F.J. Baker using oak bark tanning and traditional methods. It is valued for its distinctive look, rich history, and luxurious qualities. If you choose to buy something made with this leather, you are acquiring a product rooted in centuries-old tradition and likely paying a premium for it. Feel free to visit our WILDSWANS support & gallery store to check the stock.
