Description

This wide belt is made from vasco’s signature OLD OIL series cowhide leather.

The leather is full vegetable-tanned cowhide produced in Himeji, Japan, using the Bend portion of the hide. This part comes from the back and waist area of the cow, where the fibers are especially dense and thick. Because this area bears a large amount of tension, it offers excellent strength and durability, making it one of the most commonly used parts for high-quality belts.

The leather is finished through hill dyeing, Kogashi burnishing, and oil finishing. Even when new, it already has a natural depth of color and a warm, smooth handfeel. With wear, the leather will gradually conform to the body, develop more luster, and record the marks of your own use over time.

The hardware is made with traditionally cast solid brass and finished with an aged treatment. Both the leather and brass will develop a natural patina together as they age.

About the OLD OIL Series

OLD OIL is one of vasco’s most iconic leather series.

Made from full vegetable-tanned cowhide from Himeji, Japan, the leather is finished through hill dyeing, Kogashi burnishing, and oil finishing. This gives the leather a natural variation in color and an oiled, richly textured feel from the very beginning. With long-term use, the leather will gradually develop deeper color, richer luster, and a more personal patina, which is one of the most appealing qualities of the OLD OIL series.

What Is Hill Dyeing?

Hill dyeing, known as “Oka-zome” in Japanese, is a traditional leather-dyeing method that originated in the Santa Croce region of Italy in the 19th century.

Unlike dyeing the entire hide all the way through, hill dyeing applies color gradually from the surface of the leather. This allows the leather to retain a more natural depth and layered tone. Through use, friction, and time, the leather slowly develops rich aging character, which is why this technique remains highly appreciated by leather artisans and enthusiasts.

In recent years, artisans who can properly execute this traditional dyeing method have become increasingly rare, making the process even more valuable.

Details

• Made in Japan
• vasco OLD OIL series
• Narrow belt
• Full vegetable-tanned cowhide from Himeji, Japan
• Bend leather from the back and waist area of the hide
• Hill-dyeing finish
• Kogashi burnishing
• Oil finish
• Solid brass hardware
• Comes with a branded drawstring storage bag

Notes

• This item is made from natural cowhide leather. Each piece may vary slightly in grain, color, wrinkles, and luster, which is a normal characteristic of natural leather.
• Hill dyeing is a traditional hand-dyeing method, so each piece may show slight differences in color depth. These variations are part of the unique character of each item.
• Cowhide leather may transfer color slightly due to friction, sweat, or moisture. Please avoid prolonged contact with light-colored garments.
• With use, both the cowhide leather and brass hardware will gradually develop a natural patina over time.