Caring for antique leather, rub-off leather and Chesterfield suites

What is antique leather?

Antique leather, rub-off leather or Chesterfield leather is characterised by its distinctive two-tone appearance. An additional, usually darker, colour layer is wiped over a lighter base shade. The wiping effect gives the leather its typical “antique look”.

Cleaning

Chesterfield suites often have deeply buttoned upholstery, known as capitonné. Dust and dirt collect around the buttons and their associated folds. Carefully pre-clean these areas with a vacuum cleaner and a soft brush.

For further soiling, clean the leather with Colourlock Leather Cleaner mild.

CAUTION: on some Chesterfield leather, the wiped-on dark colour layer is very sensitive to water and can be easily dissolved by a water-based cleaner. Always test first in a concealed area. If uncertain, it is better to degrease only with Leather Cleaning Spirit and then correct the colour.

Renewing worn patina

Through use, the wiped-on dark colour layer wears away over time, especially on armrests and seat surfaces. It can be renewed with Leather Fresh (the effect is generally black) in black (colour choice F034) or the matching dark colour.
For highly glossy leather, Leather Fresh black “gloss” is needed. On some glossy leather, the gloss effect in the area of use has become matt without the dark colour layer wearing away. This effect must then be renewed with our Leather Fresh “neutral gloss” or in the corresponding colour.

NOTE: Leather Fresh black gloss cannot be ordered online; please contact us by e-mail or WhatsApp for this product.

The technique: apply the Leather Fresh tint evenly to the leather with a sponge and dry it with a hair dryer. The application may and should be somewhat too dark; this is intentional. After thorough drying, lighten the excess again with the Colourlock Sanding Pad. The colour remains dark in the recesses, just as in the original. The technique sounds elaborate, but is easier than you think. Always practise first in a concealed area.

First close larger scratches and dry breaks with Fluid Leather (liquid leather).

Care

For antique leather with colour abrasion, first protect it with Colourlock Leather Shield. Leather Shield fixes the surface and reduces further colour abrasion.

Then care for the leather according to its gloss level: satin-matt leather with Colourlock Leather Care, glossy leather with Colourlock Elephant Leather Preserver.

For more extensive damage or if professional restoration is wanted, we look forward to receiving your photos so that we can make an assessment.