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Product Details:• Condition: Pre-owned (Vintage; shows clear signs of age and a rich, deep patina)
• Year of Production: 1974
• Origin: Switzerland
• Manufacturer/Leatherworker: M. Lanz (Thun)
• Material: 100% high-quality, thick saddle leather (vegetable-tanned)
• Color: Dark brown / Oxblood (deep reddish-brown)
• Category: Military Collectibles / Decommissioned Swiss Army GearProduct Description:1974 Swiss Army Genuine Leather Map/Messenger Bag
Crafted by master leatherworker M. Lanz in Thun, Switzerland
This piece serves as a testament to European military history: a heavy-duty, genuine leather messenger (map) bag issued by the Swiss Army in 1974. Swiss military leather goods of this era are widely considered the \"gold standard\" of military surplus—each piece was handcrafted by local artisans to meet rigorous military specifications.Historical Provenance and Markings:The back of the bag features a clear maker’s stamp: \"M.LANZ / SATTLER / THUN / 74,\" confirming its production in 1974 in Thun—a town of significant historical importance to the Swiss military. Below this, you will find the official Swiss Army inspection stamp (featuring the Swiss cross and the letters \"CA\"), verifying that the item was formally issued and inspected by the Swiss Armed Forces. Condition Report (Please read carefully and examine the photos):This bag is in an authentic \"retired\" vintage condition, possessing a rich, aged character and a deep patina—the result of actual field use—which cannot be replicated by modern reproductions. • Leather and Main Body: The body of the bag and the internal flap remain very sturdy, thick, and durable. The interior is exceptionally clean, displaying an attractive amber-brown hue (see photos for details). There are no unpleasant odors or signs of mold. • Shoulder Strap and Wear: As a piece of military gear once used for field training, the leather surface bears clear signs of wear and natural aging. Please note: Due to decades of storage, the shoulder strap and front closure straps have become somewhat stiff and dry, showing signs of fiber separation, surface cracking, and edge wear. If you intend to use this item frequently in your daily life, it is highly recommended to treat the leather with a high-quality conditioner or oil to extend its lifespan.
• Hardware: The iconic aluminum buckles and rivets are in excellent condition—clean, rust-free, and fully functional.Dimensions (approx.):• Width: [Insert width here, e.g., 21 1/4 inches / cm]
• Height: [Insert height here, e.g., 7 inches / cm]
• Depth: [Insert depth here, e.g., 6.5 inches / cm]
This is an excellent piece for military collectors, and an ideal \"restoration/refurbishment\" project for vintage leather enthusiasts—you can personally condition the leather, experiencing and cherishing an object that embodies legendary Swiss craftsmanship.
Worldwide shipping available. Please examine all photos carefully, as they are an integral part of the item description. If you have any questions or would like to make a reasonable offer, please feel free to reach out!
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