The People In the spring of 1978 brothers Cliff and Charles Underwood founded Underwood Leathers Ltd. with a mission statement for "Unsurpassed Excellence in Fine Leathergoods".  The Retail Division evolved into the Charles Underwood Collection which has been available through a select group of exclusive retailers for over 25 years.  The company now specializes in Exotic Leathers with a focus on Genuine American Alligator and Ranch Ostrich.  Only Non-Endangered skins are used in production and an authentication card with written 2-year guarantee is included with each item to insure your special purchase.    In order to understand the product, you must first understand the people.  The craftsmen at Underwood Leathers are extremely dedicated to their jobs and skills.  Pride in quality is the foremost trait required of each individual.  Mastercraftsman, Cliff Underwood oversees the production process with meticulous attention to detail.  The designer, Charles Underwood is personally involved in day to day operations at the company and his wife, Ginger serves as Director of Marketing. Each of these human components interact to create a level of excellence which is quite uncommon in today' society. Charles, Ginger & Cliff Underwood The Product The term "Handcrafted or Benchmade" originated many years ago, when leathergoods were made completely by hand at a work bench.  There is really no such thing today as 100% handcrafted leathergoods.  The reason for this is simple, for some jobs machines have been developed that can, and will consistently do a better job than one can do by hand.  We know that the most important factor is whose hands did the work, and by what standard of excellence the method of production is overseen.  An example would be our "Hand-Stained" edges which are actually seven steps combining machine and handwork to produce an extremely smooth edge which is finished with three separate coats of Polymer dye to create a fine finish. If care is taken in the handwork and to operate the machinery properly, then both jobs are truly the best.  Take special note that we say best but not necessarily the fastest.  Our choice has always been the method for highest quality, even though it may take longer to complete the job. We do nothing that others could not duplicate if they had the will to do it.  In addition to impeccable craftsmanship, we spare no expense in all our raw materials.  If anything,  we are considered by some to be extravagant in this respect.  Although the quality of the leather is obvious, it is the hidden materials which make our products a step above the rest.  For instance, our Drop Handle Portfolio and Letter / Junior Pads feature a rigid but flexible Lex-Frame®, which extends completely to cover all edges and will maintain structure adding value for many years of use.  Another example is our Attache frame which is constructed of aircraft grade plywood imported from Finland.  This expensive Birch hardwood contains a higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel and provides the best frame money can buy.  When you purchase Charles Underwood, you will have an investment in magnificent leathergoods which anyone would be justifiably proud to own. Join Our Mailing List Email: Go Back