Review: Noreve Archos 5 vintage leather case
Once I determined that the Archos 5
official protective case was a waste of money, I followed the well-worn path to Noreve, one of my favorite gadget accessory manufacturers, and took a look at their tradition leather case
. Though I’ve been thoroughly impressed with Noreve’s leather quality in the past (and there are 12 colors to choose from), I decided to take the road less traveled and wait several weeks for a custom-made dark vintage case from the company’s Exceptional Selection.
Was the wait worth the $60 price tag? Read my full review below to find out.
Design
As with all Noreve products, this one is handcrafted using top-quality leather. In addition to impeccable craftsmanship, the vintage leather case is thoughtfully designed with understated elegance.
The leather is lightly cushioned and weathered by a tanning process that includes special oils, so it has a nice texture and that gorgeous "leather smell" you usually only get from expensive handbags and jackets.
The minimalist design and button-snap closure make the Archos Internet Media Tablet look more like a small planner/organizer than an entertainment device. Add to that two business card slots built into the embossed leather interior, and you’ve got something fun, professional, and elegant all rolled into one.
The vintage leather, which is available in three colors (dark, sandy, and passion), lacks the luster of Noreve’s traditional leather because of its suede finish. Which is "better" is simply a matter of personal preference.
Fit
The Archos 5 is held in place inside the book-style case by three hard clasps/brackets covered in suede. The device slips in from the top and slides under the brackets, which have rounded edges to prevent scratching the shiny finish.
Though there is no locking/clicking mechanism, the fit is incredibly secure. The Archos 5 cannot even be roughly shaken out of the clasps’ grasp.
Function
All of the player’s ports and buttons are easily accessible while in the case, so there’s very little reason to ever remove the Archos 5 from it.
Even the official mini dock can be used with no compromise while the device is encased.
Wondering about the Archos 5’s integrated kickstand?
With the Noreve case, you don’t need it anymore! A sturdy stand is sewn onto the back of the case, lays completely flat when not in use, and positions the Archos 5 at an optimal viewing angle.
Conclusion
I could go on and on about the virtues of the Noreve vintage leather case, but let me just say that my personal search for perfect Archos 5 protection is over and leave it at that.
There are two versions of the case (one for the 60GB model, the other for the 120GB/250GB models) and both are available in traditional and vintage leathers. The traditional cases come in 12 colors and retail for $50, while the vintage cases are offered in three colors and sell for $60. The black tradition leather case is almost always in stock at Amazon, while the other varieties can be purchased directly from Noreve.
If you order from Noreve before December 31, use the coupon code Holiday08 during checkout to save 15%.
Full specifications and more details on the Archos 5 in Pocketables Products.
