A perfect wallet, for your phone
I am particular about a few things when I consider a purchase. Ok, I am really particular, but I have found that a few rules seem to always yield the greatest satisfaction.
- Is the product made by a craftsman? Made in the USA is important to me as well, but what is most important is rewarding the innovators and originators. If people keep buying the knock-off garbage the innovation will stop and we all suffer.
- Is the product unique or innovative?
- Will the product last? Will I be searching for a replacement in some Siberian village?
- I want products that have style – not fashion. Know the difference.
So, this brings us to the Portel Retromodern wallet. Beyond the slightly lame name, the wallet has been a pleasure to own and use for the last year. During that time, it has survived dozens of countries, four continents and a circumnavigation of the norther hemisphere. Thick leather and oversized snaps have proven to be 100% reliable and the shape has literally moulded to . . . the Land Cruiser’s seat. What I really like about the wallet, and the reason I bought it was the fact that it will hold an iPhone, my drivers license and a decent wad of euros and dollars. I am not one of those people with a ridiculous pile of 30 credit cards in their wallet. I have a visa debit card, my American Express and a drivers license. All of this fits perfect in one wallet and it protects the phone too. Simple. Perfect. Available on Etsy
Even with an iPhone inside, the wallet is comfortable for all-day use. If pickpockets are an issue, it works ok in the front pocket. The snaps are bomber.
The day’s cash needs easily fit in the wallet. I don’t keep more than a day in the wallet anyways.
Made in Estonia. A beautiful country with really nice people. One of my favorites even though I was robbed there. . . I would highly recommend Tallin, a great location after a trip to Scandinavia (and taking the ferry over from Helsinki). It is also the best country to cross into Russia from. Small, mellow border controls with a scheduled crossing time you can reserve in advance.
