This winter, a special edition model of Felisi 's classic briefcase has been released exclusively for Isetan Men's. Just by reading this, anyone with a keen eye will probably guess which model it is. That's how iconic the "8637/2" is to Felisi .

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Briefcase "8637/2" ¥71,280
Purchase here

The combination of a silky-smooth nylon body with an elegant sheen and vachetta leather tanned using natural vegetable tannins in Tuscany achieves both lightness and durability. It revolutionized the previously heavy leather business briefcases. The iconic design is the leather flap on the front, which reveals a zippered pocket when the snap button is unfastened. This design has been adapted to various models, forming the "Flap Series," expanding the briefcase lineup and being used in tote bags as well.


Although not widely known, the numbers prefixed to some model names also have meaning. The "86" in "8637/2" comes from the fact that the initial design was created in 1986. The "37" that follows indicates that it was the 37th design. The "/2" signifies a second version with improvements. The handles, which were originally flat, were changed to leather handles with cotton rope wrapped inside, and the zipper sliders were changed from fringes to leather pull tabs with sponge inserts when the bags were brought to Japan.

Briefcase "8637/2" 108,000 yen
* exclusively at Isetan Shinjuku Store
Purchase here

The Isetan Men's exclusive model comes in five colors. This all-leather version is available in five color combinations: navy x navy, green x black, black x black, beige x dark brown, and dark brown x dark brown.

"Felisi is often associated with navy, so navy on navy is a must. Black is a classic color, and the trendy colors in this color palette are green and brown tones."


Isao Okayasu, who spoke these words, is the person in charge at Figo, the sole distributor of Felisi in Japan. He also played a key role in this special order model.

"We've always been flexible in accommodating custom orders. Felisi always wants to fulfill our customers' wishes as much as possible. We're not averse to creating something from scratch if a customer requests it, whether it's in terms of color, design, or capacity. However, there are some aspects of the current 8637/2 model that they stubbornly refuse to accept."

What truly remains unchanged is not the design, but the spirit of craftsmanship.

Mr. Okayasu apologetically pointed out three design elements that could not be changed. These are also the very identity that Felisi , while being flexible with custom orders, steadfastly maintains.

One drawback is that it doesn't come with a shoulder strap.

Surprisingly, the "8637/2" brief does not have a shoulder strap. While it is common for other brands to include a detachable shoulder strap with their briefcases, Felisi apparently does not approve of business executives in suits carrying shoulder bags over their shoulders. Models that do come with a detachable shoulder strap are sold as separate models in the same flap series, with different designs, specifications, and even model names.


Another thing to avoid is not attaching bottom studs.

For those who are particular about cleanliness, bottom studs are a must-have detail that provides peace of mind when placing a bag on the floor, whether in the office, at a client's office, or in a car while traveling. However, Felisi never attaches bottom studs to the "8637/2." Instead, they take pride in using highly durable leather for the bottom. Of course, there are other models with bottom studs, regardless of the bottom material. But Felisi will never agree to attach bottom studs to the "8637/2."


And the third point is to always attach a name tag to the handle.

In recent years, name tags have become less common due to concerns about protecting personal information and the development of tracer systems. However, Felisi does not remove name tags. Of course, one can simply remove them themselves when using the product.

"In the past, our clients used to complain about this a lot, but recently, everyone seems to understand, and it seems that the idea that these three points are absolutely non-negotiable has become ingrained, so we no longer get complaints about them when placing custom orders."


Mr. Okayasu scratched his head as he said that. His unwavering commitment, or perhaps stubbornness, and refusal to change, must be a source of pride for the brand. That's precisely why I feel a sense of respect for it.

"But what truly remains unchanged, or rather, what will never change, is their spirit of craftsmanship. That is their hospitality towards the user. More than design, specifications, or cost, they create every detail with the user's feelings in mind. I think that way of thinking is the most unwavering aspect of Felisi, which has remained unchanged since the company started 45 years ago."

Photo: Tatsuya Ozawa
Text: Yasuyuki Ikeda

▶View Felisi products at Isetan Online Store

Event Information

Felisi Promotion

□November 28th (Wednesday) - December 31st (Monday)

□ Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building B1F = Men's Bags

▶Learn more here

*All prices include tax.

inquiry
Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , B1F = Men's Bags
03-3352-1111 (main representative)