Dooney & Bourke Florentine Vachetta Medium Satchel in Black
Satchel / Dome Bag with adjustable buckle detailing · Dooney & Bourke (American heritage luxury brand), premium tier known for equestrian roots and durable leather goods.
Collection: Florentine Collection, a premium permanent line featuring vegetable-tanned leather from Florence, Italy.
Style
Satchel / Dome Bag with adjustable buckle detailing
Brand
Dooney & Bourke (American heritage luxury brand), premium tier known for equestrian roots and durable leather goods.
Material
Vachetta leather (vegetable-tanned), noted for its smooth feel and ability to develop a patina. Features whipstitched handles and hand-painted burnished edges. Construction is machine-stitched with heavy-duty bonded thread.
Dimensions
Width: 33cm (13"), Height: 24cm (9.5"), Depth: 16.5cm (6.5"), Handle Drop: 12.7cm (5").
Description
The Florentine Medium Satchel is the crown jewel of Dooney & Bourke’s leather offerings. It combines a sophisticated dome-shaped silhouette with equestrian-inspired buckle straps and artisanal whipstitched handles. Crafted from Italian vegetable-tanned leather, the bag is designed to age beautifully, acquiring character with every wear.
Key Features
Signature green suede interior trim near the zipper, whipstitched handles, brushed gold buckles, and the iconic embossed duck logo. Side tassels add a touch of movement to the structured design.
Material & Construction
Vachetta leather (vegetable-tanned), noted for its smooth feel and ability to develop a patina. Features whipstitched handles and hand-painted burnished edges. Construction is machine-stitched with heavy-duty bonded thread.
Color & Pattern
Black; a permanent classic color. The leather is plain matte with a natural grain that develops a subtle sheen over time. Minimalist aesthetic without monograms.
Hardware Details
Brushed Gold-tone hardware (satin finished); includes large O-rings, decorative front buckles with prong detail, and side tassel caps. Brass zipper with leather pull. Leather-inlaid duck logo plate.
Interior Description
Red cotton canvas lining (signature of the Florentine line), green suede collar detail along the zipper, one interior zip pocket, two slip pockets, and a key hook with leash.
Closure Type
Top zipper closure with an elongated leather pull for easy grip and security.
Strap & Handle Details
Double rolled top handles featuring a distinct whipstitch (braided) edge detail. Handles are attached via O-rings. Originally included a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap (not visible in image).
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional for its price point; features saddle-style stitching accents, heavy hardware that feels substantial, and meticulous edge painting to ensure the leather does not fray.
Authentication Indicators
Uniform stitching with high stitch count per inch; thick, high-quality leather scent; red canvas lining paired with green suede; branded zipper hardware; accurately centered duck logo patch.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in the USA; Leather sourced from Florence, Italy. Manufactured in China or Vietnam according to high-quality brand standards for the Florentine line.
Era & Period
Modern Classic (introduced in the 2010s). Part of the brand's 'heritage revival' period focusing on high-quality Italian leathers and equestrian hardware.
Age Estimate
Circa 2014-2020 based on the brushed gold hardware finish and the specific rectangular leather-on-leather duck logo patch.
Cultural Significance
Representing the 'Workhorse Luxury' movement in American fashion, this bag bridged the gap between functional everyday carry and high-end Italian craftsmanship for the US market.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The exterior shows light surface scratches typical of Florentine leather (which can be buffed out). Hardware remains matte without significant oxidation. Structure is excellent with minor softening at the base corners.
Value Estimate
Original Retail: $398 - $428. Resale Market Value: $125 - $225 depending on the presence of the long shoulder strap and condition of the corners.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Use Dooney & Bourke’s leather conditioner or a high-quality beeswax cream. Avoid excessive water; if wet, blot immediately and air dry. Store in a dust bag stuffed with acid-free tissue.
Similar Handbags
Coach Rogue (similar pebbled leather/size), Louis Vuitton Alma (similar dome shape), or the Dooney & Bourke Barlow bag (similar side pocket features).
Interesting Facts
The Florentine leather used for this bag is treated with natural oils and tallow, allowing small scratches to be 'healed' by simply rubbing the leather with your thumb.