A lifelong fan of craftsmanship and leather, I established Bentleys in 1989. Bentleys has built a world-renowned collection of antique trunks and vintage travel accessories from the great luxury houses including Louis Vuitton, Goyard, Hermès, Dunhill and Moynat. I place an emphasis on finding original examples in the best condition possible. Aside from the travel-orientated collections, the shop is often described as a ‘cabinet of curiosities' reflecting selections of vintage barware, cigar smoking accessories and leather goods.I’m inspired by the skills and commitment of craftsmen and have always loved the unique characteristics of well-aged leather. The unusual combination of experience that I have works well at bridging the gap in approaches between individual craftsmen and commercially-focused brands. Bentleys have hosted independent leatherworkers in each of the five London Craft Weeks. In 2019 we were joined by Neil MacGregor and Valerie Michael and in 2020 we held an exhibition of their recent work. In past London Craft Weeks we've hosted Mia Sabel, Charles Laurie and Riina Oun, all from London, and bespoke leather accessorised bicycle maker Helio Ascari from New York.Leather is at the heart of Bentleys and our new website features a selection of work by Modern Masters broadening our offering to include exceptional examples of modern leather craftsmanship. I have worked with a number of international brands and curators keen to add to their archives, and recently helped create a museum-quality collection of antique Louis Vuitton trunks. My experience in the field allows me to work on a consultancy basis with brands that are looking to celebrate the detail and craftsmanship of vintage leather goods in their current ranges. Bentleys has an extensive archive to draw on which has proved to be an important resource.From 2008-2010, Bentleys collaborated with Alfred Dunhill Asia to establish pop-up vintage stores in the extraordinary Shanghai Twin Villas store and in their Japanese Ginza flagship. 2011-2013 saw a pop-up store in the Gieves and Hawkes showroom at No.1, Savile Row. Our latest collaboration is with Connolly England, supplying interior pieces to sell in their atelier on Clifford Street, London. The shop is in the heart of the Pimlico Road Design District at 91, Lower Sloane Street and Bentleys is and active member of LAPADA.