Pueblo Leather Guide: The Italian Job

Pueblo is a name that carries weight in the world of leatherworking. Produced by the renowned Italian tannery Badalassi Carlo, Pueblo is beloved by artisans and collectors alike for its rich character, unique surface finish, and the stunning patina it can develop over time. Whether it's a watch strap, wallet, or another leather accessory, this guide will take you through the history, characteristics, care, and appeal of Pueblo leather.

Origins

Pueblo leather is crafted by Badalassi Carlo, a member of the Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale, an association of Tuscan tanneries dedicated to preserving the traditions of vegetable tanning. Vegetable tanning is one of the oldest methods of tanning leather, using natural tannins extracted from plants, bark, and roots rather than modern chrome-tanning chemicals. This method is more difficult and time-intensive, but results in a leather that is more environmentally friendly and rich in depth and character.

What sets Pueblo apart is its finishing process. After the vegetable tanning process, the surface of the leather is hand-buffed which gives it a slightly rough, almost nubuck-like feel while retaining the durability of smooth leather and makes each hide unique.

Look and Feel

Pueblo has a slightly fibrous, matte surface that feels soft yet firm. Its texture is unlike polished calf or glossy exotic skins, instead offering a more understated, artisanal appeal. The colours are deep and earthy, ranging from rich browns and bordeaux to olive greens and navy blues. 

One of the most celebrated qualities of Pueblo is the way it develops patina. With use, the matte finish gradually darkens and smooths out, revealing a glossy depth beneath. This transformation is part of wat makes Pueblo so desirable to leather enthusiasts. It starts off with a rustic, matte charm that evolves into something sleeker and refined over time.

Pueblo in Watch Straps

Pueblo offers a nice balance between ruggedness and elegance. It's casual and versatile enough for casual wear, yet it pairs beautifully with dressier timepieces once the patina starts to set in.

For example, a Pueblo strap in dark brown or bordeaux can give a vintage watch a warm, aged charm while a lighter colour like cognac or olive green might add a more casual touch. Unlike exotic skins that signal luxury, Pueblo leather is more subtle and low-key, showing that you have an eye for leathers. 

Where can you get Pueblo Leather?

Nomad Watch Works

Here at Nomad Watch Works, we offer both ready-made and custom-made Pueblo leather straps for those who want to enjoy the artisanal beauty of this Italian leather. Our ready-made options, like the Pueblo Leather Strap in Bordeaux, showcase Pueblo’s distinctive matte texture and evolving patina in a range of versatile sizes. For those seeking a more personalized touch, we also provide custom strap services, allowing you to choose your preferred color, stitching style, and fit to perfectly complement your watch. Whether off-the-shelf or tailor-made, each strap is crafted with care, lined for comfort, and equipped with quick-release spring bars for convenience.

StrapSeeker

StrapSeeker offers beautifully crafted Pueblo Leather Watch Bands designed to highlight Pueblo’s matte finish and evolving patina. Their strap showcases the signature fibrous texture and soft handfeel that enthusiasts appreciate, while retaining the strength and structure needed for daily use. With versatile lug options, precision stitching, and quality lining, this strap bridges artisan aesthetics and reliable wearability. Whether you’re refreshing your daily watch or seeking a subtle statement piece, StrapSeeker’s Pueblo offering provides an elegant, ready-made option for lovers of fine leather.

Seascape Leather

For those seeking Pueblo leather goods beyond watch straps, Seascape Leather in the UK offers beautifully handcrafted small leather goods like wallets and accessories. Their Pueblo Leather Card Wallet in Tobacco showcases the rustic matte finish and rich character that Pueblo is known for, while ensuring durability and timeless appeal. Each piece is carefully crafted by hand, highlighting the unique surface of the leather and allowing it to develop a stunning patina with use. Seascape Leather focuses on artisanal craftsmanship and quality, making their Pueblo offerings an excellent choice for those who want to experience the character of this renowned Italian leather in everyday carry items.

Care and Maintenance

As Pueblo is a vegetable-tanned leather and has an open surface finish, it does require some care. However, part of the charm is that Pueblo is meant to patina over time. Here are some tips to care for your Pueblo leather:

Avoid water: While light rain or splashes won't do much harm, Pueblo can darken and stiffen if soaked. It's best to avoid moisture as much as possible.

Condition occasionally: A small amount of conditioner or cream sporadically can keep Pueblo from drying out.

Allow it to age: Resist the urge to polish it too often, the charm lies in its gradual patina with daily use. 

Why Enthusiasts go for Pueblo Leather

Its rich surface, artisanal production, and gradual patina makes it stand out from more common leathers. Each piece is unique and tells a story of use and time.

Pueblo goes well with a wide variety of watches like tool watches, vintage models, and heritage designs because the leather's rustic qualities complement these styles. As it ages, it can elevate a modern watch in unexpected ways. 

Final Thoughts

Pueblo leather is not simply another option in the world of watch straps and fine leather goods. It is an experience. From the moment you first touch its matte, fibrous surface to the years later when it has transformed into a glossy, well-worn strap, Pueblo offers a journey unlike any other leather. Its artisanal origins, tactile appeal, and patina potential make it a favorite among those who value craftsmanship and individuality.

Whether you are just starting your leather strap collection or you are a seasoned collector seeking something unique, Pueblo leather deserves a place in your lineup. It represents not only the heritage of Italian vegetable tanning but also the timeless beauty of materials that grow more charming with age.