There's a lot of discussion these days about
country of origin, of the source of products and who makes them. I believe
there's a fallacy emerging that suggests that unless a product is made in the
USA or Japan then it is in some respects inferior. Now all arguments of
nationalism aside I know for a fact that many of these perceptions are just not
true.
Many many years ago
before many of the current crop of Vintage aficionados had come to an age of
consciousness, there were two young Thai guys that lived in Sydney. I used to
see them every weekend at every flea market. They would travel from one market to
the next with keen eyes fixed on buying vintage. They were so far ahead of the
game it was ridiculous to watch. I would hold a stall stocked with Americana
goodies from my personal collection that one clueless Rockabilly after another
would walked aimlessly past, and yet these two Thai guys would zoom in turning
denim legs inside out looking for selvedge and single stitches and buying up
big to send back home. These goods no doubt were destined to be sold in the
Bangkok vintage markets in Chatuchak.
Jumping ahead 30
years the appreciation for vintage in South East Asia is still as strong as
ever and whilst the markets are still a draw card for the acquisition of
original pieces there has also been a proliferation of original makers who have
been inspired by their forbears and by the sharing of new technology and the web
connecting the world.
The Papa, forever on
his endless quest for great product stumbled onto two great resources lately,
both markers and craftsman of a very high degree and both steeped in the
necessary background to produce goods of a very high standard.
With pleasure the
Papa introduces Saneer Lohvitee of Solomonmini and Ed of The White Hat Club.
Both of these artisans were chosen by the Papa to produce a small range of bags
for the men of the Beach Battalion. The selection criteria was simple, a rugged
soul, an individual interpretation, a sense of history, a pride in
craftsmanship, both makers passed with flying colours.
Having seen these two guys work its instantly apparent that its not so much about where you are from but how much integrity you have at heart. I have seen of late a denim industry assualted by the worst infiltrators of all, Jeanery's. Especially in Europe, the mainstream Jean store has become the new self claimed expert in denim goods, carrying exotic quality brands but sold without soul, sold without any interest other than the pursuit of a dollar. I take solice however in the fact that out there in the world be it the back streets of Bangkok or regional America or even the grimy streets of Ol' Blighty there are so many young enthusiasts carving out there own niche and a fresh take on a old industry and so there you have it, its not so much about the country of origin but the origin of the soul thats important in this day and in the integrity of product. This is the way the Papa thinks and these are the people that the Papa supports.
The White Hat Club x Papa Nui Battalion Bag.
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