Condition standards
Condition grading guide
We use a five-step grading scale similar to the one used by major Japanese and international pre-owned auction houses, so you can compare our stock with other sources. Grades describe the overall condition; specific flaws are always listed in the item’s condition notes and shown in photos.
S
0 in stockS — Unused / like new
Unused or used once. No visible signs of wear.
Corners, edges, handles and hardware show no visible wear. Interior clean. May have minor storage marks only.
A
452 in stockA — Excellent
Lightly used. Very minor signs of wear visible on close inspection.
Light wear on corners or handles, faint hardware scratches. No stains, odours or repairs. Interior clean.
AB
0 in stockAB — Very good
Used with light, visible wear. Ready to resell as-is.
Visible but light wear on corners, edges or handles; light patina on vachetta; hardware scratches. Interior may show light marks.
B
0 in stockB — Good
Noticeable wear consistent with regular use.
Corner rubbing, darkened handles, edge-paint wear, interior marks or light odour possible. Fully functional. Suits buyers who refurbish or price accordingly.
C
0 in stockC — Fair / for refurbishment
Heavy wear or defects. Priced for refurbishment or parts.
Significant wear, stains, peeling, sticky interior, broken zips or missing parts possible. All defects disclosed in condition notes and photos.
How we grade
- Grades are assigned by inspecting corners, edges, handles, hardware, interior, odour and shape.
- Vachetta patina (natural darkening of untreated leather) is normal on vintage pieces and is described, not hidden.
- If an item sits between two grades, we assign the lower grade.
- Video walk-throughs are available on request for every item.