Refreshing Mercedes Cognac two-tone leather

The typical two-tone leather of many Mercedes classic cars is beautiful, but more demanding to refresh than normal, plain-coloured leather. This article shows what is possible and how to proceed.

What is “Cognac Two-Tone” leather?

The colour “Cognac Two-Tone”, also known as “Natur Antik”, is widespread on Mercedes classic cars. It is leather with an ochre-coloured background and dark, reddish dots on the surface. Over the years, the reddish dots disappear in areas subject to use, especially on the driver’s seat, bolsters and backrest, through rubbing, cleaning and care.

In addition, this leather changes colour through use and exposure to sunlight. Some examples become darker, others lighter. This is particularly noticeable with partial repairs: new leather barely matches the colour of the aged remainder.

A similar two-tone effect is also found on other classic cars, for example the 1968 Citroën DS.

Cleaning

Cleaners can easily dissolve the reddish dots, causing them to disappear. Therefore, proceed very carefully when cleaning.

Areas where the dots have already disappeared completely can be cleaned with Colourlock Leather Cleaner mild. Degrease and clean areas where the dots are still present exclusively with Leather Cleaning Spirit. It dissolves the dots considerably less than liquid/water-based cleaners. Always test first in a concealed area.

Colour refreshing with our Leather Fresh tints

A complete restoration of the original two-tone effect is only possible through experienced specialists. However, a significant improvement can be achieved yourself, without great risk if you proceed step by step.

Step 1: Apply the base colour

First apply the lighter undertone evenly with a sponge using Colourlock Leather Fresh “MB Cognac 2-Ton” (special colour). Do not aim for complete coverage, only for a more even overall colouring. Dry with a hair dryer between layers; this makes application considerably easier.

Step 2: Dab on the dots

Dilute Leather Fresh F025 (reddish-brown tint for the dots) with around 10 to 20 per cent water and place it in a shallow bowl. Briefly dip our Colourlock Mini Brush Set of 10, shake off excess liquid and dab the dots onto the base-coloured leather using light dabbing movements.

As long as the tint is still wet, mistakes can easily be corrected with a lightly damp cloth. If the colouring is too intense, carefully even out the result with the Sanding Pad.

Step 3: Care

One day after colour refreshing, care for the leather gently with a thin application of Colorlock Leather Care.

When is a workshop the better choice?

For badly damaged areas, partial repairs that must match the rest perfectly in colour, or when a professional overall result is desired, professional refurbishment is the right approach. We have experience with this leather and will be happy to advise you. – Send workshop enquiries with a photo –.