I am a teacher, and I purchased this bag before the beginning of the last school year to replace an older L.L. Bean canvas bag. After having used this everyday for over a year, it still looks great. Any scratches seem to disappear with a little saddle soap and if there are any as time goes on, it just adds to the character of the bag. I use this mostly to carry student work and text books with the occasional lap top. It seems to be "just right," not too big or too small. It goes great when dressing up or jeans and sneakers, but I've also used it for a day trip to NYC, and it had room for all the essentials. Everyone comments about what a nice looking bag it is, and I am totally satisfied with this purchase.
I looked at many bags, ordered a few, and returned all but this one. I wanted something big to use when I travel. This was as big as I could carry without looking overwhelmed by the size. ( I am 5ft 4') It is very well made and fits easily under the airplane seat. I wear it cross body so I can have my hands free. I do wish it had a pad on the shoulder strap. It also needs another zip pocket inside. The one on the inside of the flap doesn't count - it is just weird and useless. I like to use the outside zipper pocket for my cell and boarding passes. It would be better if it were not a side pocket (it's a little awkward) but many of the bags didn't have one at all. I have only used it a couple of months but it seems it will be durable.
This bag is awesome. Beautiful supple brown leather! The latch problem is worked out, no problems with mine. The bag easily holds my 13" MacBook Pro and several other items. I easily fit two medium sized books as well. 3 books is a little too much.
