Originally Posted by
Roger Koh
Thanks for the pictures.
Color matching is perfect and refinishing looks new!
Leather is sensuous and pictures can only show that much that pleases the eyes.
The cracking of the leather is caused by “sweat” contamination, penetrating the finishes and shifting the leather protein fiber ionic negative (-ve). Body oil, grease and sweat is removed and the protein fiber recharged ionic positive (+ve) prior to hydrating to relax the thickness of the leather. When the stick together fiber is separated, fat and oil is replenished to soften and strengthen the leather again from reverting to rawhide beneath the new finishes. The integrity of the refinishing will only tell with time, how well it holds up. When refinishing to the damaged areas feels stiffer it will develop cracks too soon when the leather is used with constant compression.
Besides the leather “handle” the sense of touch or tactile-feel is still has to be experience - Steering wheel ideally is to have a draggy-feel for a safer grip for driving, while the console and other areas should ideally have a smooth buttery-feel against sticky soiling and prolonging the abrasion wear with constant contact.
The scent of leather is yet another aspect of leather even a blind man can see.
The sensuousness aspect of leather appeals to our senses more than by sight and epitomizes the “luxuries” with interiors of cars.