Somebody recently asked why new cars with leather interiors don't have the
smell and feel of classics.
The December issue of Classic and Sportscar mentions this subject.
Originally full hides were cured over a longer period using animal urine (yes)
and oak bark amongst other stuff. Now its done with Chromic acid, often in
developing countries.
Old hides had to be unmarked and were used in their full thickness. Now,
surprise, surprise, the hides are sliced to produce more (thinner) sheets from
the same hide. They are then rolled and pressed flat to remove any
imperfections and...get this...the grain is then artificially pressed back into
them. Finally they are coated with some teflon like substance to prevent
staining. No wonder your new Chrysler (no offence Rich) doesn't smell like a
MkII Jag!
I haven't been in a Bentley or Rolls recently, maybe they still use full
Connolly hides
cheers
Derek
www.healeysix.net
|