The Messenger
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The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger
The Messenger

The Messenger

The Messenger

4.8/5 from 1500+ Reviews

Regular price $625
Regular price Sale price $625
Graduation Sale Sold out

“Pieces that age like a fine wine - gaining more character over time.”

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Italian vegetable tanned full grain leather
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Signature stainless steel hardware
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Padded sleeve fits up to 16" laptops
Out of stock

Size Guide

Size Guide

Fast & Free Delivery

Please note the date displayed here is for delivery of this item to the contiguous US.

Every JAMES REDWOOD order ships complimentary from our warehouse in Missouri. 

There are no tariffs, import duties or unexpected charges on delivery.

We also ship to Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Delivery times vary slightly by location. Read full shipping policy.

100% Secure Checkout

Your payment is fully encrypted and processed securely. We never store your card details, and all transactions are protected using industry-standard security protocols.

Easy 30 Day Returns & Exchanges

If you’re not 100% satisfied, you’ve got a full 30 days from your order date to return or exchange your item. We offer full refunds or easy exchanges, and our expert team is happy to recommend something better suited if needed. Items must be unused and in original condition and packaging. Read full returns policy.

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Description
Details
Delivery
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The Messenger brings traditional satchel design into the modern professional world, combining a distinctive double-buckle silhouette with considered organization and materials built for years of daily use.

Custom Tuscan vegetable tanned leather develops a richer character over time, complemented by 316 stainless steel hardware and Japanese YKK Excella zippers. A substantial 100% cotton twill lining brings a natural, refined finish to the interior.

Inside, a padded, suspended compartment protects laptops up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, while dedicated storage keeps documents, devices and everyday essentials neatly organized. A reinforced leather top handle, cushioned shoulder strap and integrated luggage strap offer comfortable, practical carrying options from the office to the airport.

With its timeless profile and purposeful construction, The Messenger is designed to look as appropriate in the boardroom as it does on the journey there.

Leather defines the character of every JAMES REDWOOD piece. Ours was custom-developed in Tuscany for natural beauty, substantial structure and the ability to grow richer with age.

Leather Specification

  • Origin: Tuscany, Italy
  • Tannery: MPG Conceria
  • Hide: French bovine double shoulder
  • Grain: Full grain
  • Tanning: Vegetable tanned
  • Finish: Aniline
  • Thickness: 2.0-2.2 mm/5-6 oz
  • Certified by: Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium
  • LWG rating: Gold

Selected for Strength and Character

  • We use substantial 5-6 oz (2.0-2.2 mm) full grain French bovine double shoulder. By retaining the hide’s strongest outer layer rather than sanding it away, full grain leather preserves its strength, texture and distinctive grain.

  • We choose the slower, traditional vegetable tanning method for the structure, depth and exceptional ageing characteristics it gives the leather. Plant-derived tannins create a firm, characterful leather that responds beautifully to handling and use, gradually deepening in colour and developing a distinctive patina.

  • Aniline dyes keep the natural grain visible, while oils and waxes create its smooth, supple hand and rich depth of colour. Natural variations in grain, tone and markings ensure no two pieces age exactly alike.

Made in Tuscany, Italy

  • Our leather was developed with MPG Conceria, a family-run Tuscan tannery established in 1963 and specialising in vegetable tanned bovine leather.

  • Our leather is certified by the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, whose exacting standards govern Tuscan origin, traditional vegetable tanning and leather quality. 

  • It also holds the Leather Working Group’s highest Gold rating for responsible leather production. Every hide is fully traceable and sourced as a by-product of the food industry, making use of material that might otherwise go to waste.

Every component is selected for strength, longevity and a refined daily experience.

Components

  • Our signature 316 stainless steel hardware is corrosion-resistant, hand-polished and load-tested up to 100 kg.
  • YKK Excella zippers use individually polished elements for a smooth, reliable glide.
  • The interior is lined in substantial 100% cotton twill for a soft hand and excellent abrasion resistance.
  • High-strength bonded polyester thread in a matching color is used for exceptional seam strength and abrasion resistance.

Construction

  • Fully turned and finished edges ensure no exposed raw edges remain.
  • A reinforced base adds strength and helps resist crushing.
  • Stainless steel rivets reinforce key stress points, adding strength where the bag carries the greatest load.
  • Structured construction helps the bag stand upright whether empty or full and retain its shape over time.
  • English-point detailing carries the same level of finish through to the smallest details.
  • Dimensions: 16" × 12" × 3.5" (40.6 × 30.5 × 8.9 cm)
  • Weight: 3.75lb empty (1.7 kg)
  • Capacity: 11L

  • Padded, suspended laptop sleeve fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro
  • Reinforced multi-layer leather top handle, stitched and riveted for strength and comfort
  • Removable full-leather shoulder strap adjustable from 45" to 55"
  • 9" x 2” cushioned shoulder pad with a non-slip suede underside
  • Integrated leather luggage strap, stitched and riveted for strength, slips over telescopic suitcase handles
  • Traditional double-strap flap with robust collar stud fastenings for easy opening and closing
  • Zippered main compartment for additional security
  • Sized to fit beneath all airline seats
  • Packaged in a rigid lift-off box with a cotton drawstring dust bag, tissue paper, care card and unique numbered Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium certificate of authenticity card.

Storage

Main Compartment

  • 1x padded laptop sleeve, 15" wide
  • 1x tablet sleeve, 13.5" wide
  • 3x interior slip pockets
  • 1x zippered pocket
  • 1x concealed AirTag pocket
  • 1x business card pocket
  • 1x spacious main compartment

Rear Easy-Access Pocket

  • 2x slip pockets for phone and wallet
  • 1x dedicated pen slots
  • 1x integrated key leash
  • 1x spacious easy-access compartment

Shipping

Every JAMES REDWOOD order ships complimentary from our warehouse in Missouri. There are no tariffs, import duties or unexpected charges on delivery. Most orders arrive within 1–5 business days after dispatch, depending on destination. Read shipping policy.

Returns

If your purchase isn’t quite right, we’re happy to accept returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the item is returned in its original condition and packaging. Read returns policy.

Description Toggle

The Messenger brings traditional satchel design into the modern professional world, combining a distinctive double-buckle silhouette with considered organization and materials built for years of daily use.

Custom Tuscan vegetable tanned leather develops a richer character over time, complemented by 316 stainless steel hardware and Japanese YKK Excella zippers. A substantial 100% cotton twill lining brings a natural, refined finish to the interior.

Inside, a padded, suspended compartment protects laptops up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, while dedicated storage keeps documents, devices and everyday essentials neatly organized. A reinforced leather top handle, cushioned shoulder strap and integrated luggage strap offer comfortable, practical carrying options from the office to the airport.

With its timeless profile and purposeful construction, The Messenger is designed to look as appropriate in the boardroom as it does on the journey there.

Leather Toggle

Leather defines the character of every JAMES REDWOOD piece. Ours was custom-developed in Tuscany for natural beauty, substantial structure and the ability to grow richer with age.

Leather Specification

  • Origin: Tuscany, Italy
  • Tannery: MPG Conceria
  • Hide: French bovine double shoulder
  • Grain: Full grain
  • Tanning: Vegetable tanned
  • Finish: Aniline
  • Thickness: 2.0-2.2 mm/5-6 oz
  • Certified by: Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium
  • LWG rating: Gold

Selected for Strength and Character

  • We use substantial 5-6 oz (2.0-2.2 mm) full grain French bovine double shoulder. By retaining the hide’s strongest outer layer rather than sanding it away, full grain leather preserves its strength, texture and distinctive grain.

  • We choose the slower, traditional vegetable tanning method for the structure, depth and exceptional ageing characteristics it gives the leather. Plant-derived tannins create a firm, characterful leather that responds beautifully to handling and use, gradually deepening in colour and developing a distinctive patina.

  • Aniline dyes keep the natural grain visible, while oils and waxes create its smooth, supple hand and rich depth of colour. Natural variations in grain, tone and markings ensure no two pieces age exactly alike.

Made in Tuscany, Italy

  • Our leather was developed with MPG Conceria, a family-run Tuscan tannery established in 1963 and specialising in vegetable tanned bovine leather.

  • Our leather is certified by the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, whose exacting standards govern Tuscan origin, traditional vegetable tanning and leather quality. 

  • It also holds the Leather Working Group’s highest Gold rating for responsible leather production. Every hide is fully traceable and sourced as a by-product of the food industry, making use of material that might otherwise go to waste.

Materials Toggle

Every component is selected for strength, longevity and a refined daily experience.

Components

  • Our signature 316 stainless steel hardware is corrosion-resistant, hand-polished and load-tested up to 100 kg.
  • YKK Excella zippers use individually polished elements for a smooth, reliable glide.
  • The interior is lined in substantial 100% cotton twill for a soft hand and excellent abrasion resistance.
  • High-strength bonded polyester thread in a matching color is used for exceptional seam strength and abrasion resistance.

Construction

  • Fully turned and finished edges ensure no exposed raw edges remain.
  • A reinforced base adds strength and helps resist crushing.
  • Stainless steel rivets reinforce key stress points, adding strength where the bag carries the greatest load.
  • Structured construction helps the bag stand upright whether empty or full and retain its shape over time.
  • English-point detailing carries the same level of finish through to the smallest details.
Specifications Toggle
  • Dimensions: 16" × 12" × 3.5" (40.6 × 30.5 × 8.9 cm)
  • Weight: 3.75lb empty (1.7 kg)
  • Capacity: 11L

  • Padded, suspended laptop sleeve fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro
  • Reinforced multi-layer leather top handle, stitched and riveted for strength and comfort
  • Removable full-leather shoulder strap adjustable from 45" to 55"
  • 9" x 2” cushioned shoulder pad with a non-slip suede underside
  • Integrated leather luggage strap, stitched and riveted for strength, slips over telescopic suitcase handles
  • Traditional double-strap flap with robust collar stud fastenings for easy opening and closing
  • Zippered main compartment for additional security
  • Sized to fit beneath all airline seats
  • Packaged in a rigid lift-off box with a cotton drawstring dust bag, tissue paper, care card and unique numbered Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium certificate of authenticity card.

Storage

Main Compartment

  • 1x padded laptop sleeve, 15" wide
  • 1x tablet sleeve, 13.5" wide
  • 3x interior slip pockets
  • 1x zippered pocket
  • 1x concealed AirTag pocket
  • 1x business card pocket
  • 1x spacious main compartment

Rear Easy-Access Pocket

  • 2x slip pockets for phone and wallet
  • 1x dedicated pen slots
  • 1x integrated key leash
  • 1x spacious easy-access compartment
Shipping & Returns Toggle

Shipping

Every JAMES REDWOOD order ships complimentary from our warehouse in Missouri. There are no tariffs, import duties or unexpected charges on delivery. Most orders arrive within 1–5 business days after dispatch, depending on destination. Read shipping policy.

Returns

If your purchase isn’t quite right, we’re happy to accept returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the item is returned in its original condition and packaging. Read returns policy.

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Recommended by

“Not just a bag—an heirloom investment in something lasting, personal, and timeless.”

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“PIeces that age like a fine wine - gaining more character over time.”

Esquire_(magazine)-Logo.wine 1.png__PID:d02254ac-ee4a-4481-bb6b-f722faa98321

“Not just a bag—an heirloom investment in something lasting, personal, and timeless.”

GQ-Logo 1.png__PID:663e4a17-4327-49e6-8759-ba25b32ac4c7

“Pieces that age like a fine wine - gaining more character over time.”

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“Looks the part. Helps you feel it too.”

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Custom Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather

Our custom, full grain leather is vegetable tanned in Tuscany, Italy.

Developed jointly with MPG Conceria, our leather meets the exacting quality standards of the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium and holds a Gold rating from the Leather Working Group for responsible leather production.

Aniline dyes preserve the natural grain of the French bovine shoulder, while oils and waxes give the leather its smooth, supple hand. With use, the color deepens and an individual patina develops.

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Signature Stainless Steel Hardware

Our hardware is custom-made to our specification from corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel and load-tested to carry up to 100kg, giving it the strength for decades of daily use.

Each piece is polished by hand for a smooth, refined finish, with engraved detailing and stainless steel rivets reinforcing key stress points throughout The Messenger.

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Japanese YKK Excella Zippers

We use Excella, YKK’s highest-grade metal zipper, engineered for exceptional smoothness and long-term reliability.

Each tooth is individually polished for a refined finish and precise glide, while YKK’s Japanese engineering and rigorous durability testing help ensure dependable performance through decades of daily use.

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Natural Cotton Twill Lining

The interior is lined in 100% cotton twill, chosen over synthetic fabrics for its natural softness, breathability and substantial weight.

The cotton gives the lining a soft, comfortable hand, while the twill weave adds structure and abrasion resistance for the demands of daily use.

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Weather-Resistant Flap & Zipper Closure

The Messenger combines the timeless appearance of a traditional satchel with a full-coverage leather flap and YKK Excella zippered main compartment. Together, they keep your belongings secure and provide greater protection from rain than a conventional flap-only design.

Robust collar stud fastenings offer a secure, dependable alternative to magnets, with none of the inconvenience of traditional buckles. Quick to open, effortless to close, and designed for years of daily use.

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Reinforced Leather Top Handle

The Messenger's top handle is constructed from multiple layers of leather, carefully shaped and stitched together to create a substantial, comfortable grip.

The layered construction provides strength and structure, while stitched and riveted attachment points reinforce the handle where it bears the weight of the bag. The result is a secure, comfortable way to lift and carry The Messenger by hand throughout the day.

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Full Leather Shoulder Strap

Our removable shoulder strap is made from full leather and adjusts up to 54 inches for a comfortable fit across different carrying styles for all body types.

A non-slip suede underside helps keep the strap in place, while the extra-long 9-inch cushioned shoulder pad spreads pressure more evenly during longer commutes and heavier carries.

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Easier Travel With Your Suitcase

The integrated leather luggage strap slips easily over a telescopic suitcase handle, keeping The Messenger secure and taking the weight off your shoulder through airports and longer journeys.

Stitched and riveted for lasting strength, it sits neatly against the bag when not in use. Simply slide it on or lift it off whenever you need.

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Protected 16-Inch Laptop Compartment

The dedicated laptop compartment fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, with padding at the front, back and base to protect your device during daily travel.

A suspended sleeve keeps your laptop raised from the bottom of the bag, protecting it from knocks while keeping your work essentials neatly separated.

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Purposeful Interior Organization

With 15 separate compartments, there is dedicated space for your essentials without adding unnecessary bulk. A reinforced base and structured construction help The Messenger retain its shape through years of daily use, whether empty or full.

Purpose-built spaces keep essentials such as your tablet, documents, passport, AirTag, business cards, mouse and charging cables organized, protected and easy to find throughout the day.

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Easy Access Essentials Pocket

The thoughtful easy-access pocket keeps your most-used essentials close at hand without opening the main compartment.

Dedicated space for your phone, wallet and pens, plus an integrated key leash, keeps everything secure and organized, yet easy to reach throughout the day.

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Signature Gift-Ready Packaging

The Messenger arrives in a rigid lift-off presentation box, wrapped in white tissue and protected by a custom soft cotton drawstring dust bag.

Inside, a care card and numbered Pelle Conciata al Vegetale in Toscana certificate provide authenticated leather provenance and traceability.

As seen in

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Rated 4.8/5 from 1352 reviews

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“Let me state this: After your demise, your children will fight over who gets this bag.”

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Hernando, US

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“My grandson will truly have this bag for life. It’s the high-end quality I hoped for when I ordered.”

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Maryland, US

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“Something worth keeping forever & creating an heirloom from. Full of decades of adventure, stories, and memories.”

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Endicott, US

Mask group (3).png__PID:4f2adfc8-0652-430a-85e9-9fbea6e51709

“Let me state this: After your demise, your children will fight over who gets this bag.”

Group 20268 (1).png__PID:e4e5a4cc-f436-4f6b-9e25-1a4cfb1ee605

Hernando, US

Mask group (3).png__PID:4f2adfc8-0652-430a-85e9-9fbea6e51709

“My grandson will truly have this bag for life. It’s the high-end quality I hoped for when I ordered.”

Group 20268.png__PID:e5a4ccf4-36df-4b9e-a51a-4cfb1ee60577

Maryland, US

Mask group (3).png__PID:4f2adfc8-0652-430a-85e9-9fbea6e51709

“Something worth keeping forever & creating an heirloom from. Full of decades of adventure, stories, and memories.”

Group 20268 (2).png__PID:6ae4e5a4-ccf4-46df-ab9e-251a4cfb1ee6

Endicott, US

FAQ's

Will my device fit The Messenger?

Up to 16 inch laptops will fit The Messenger.

To check if your device fits The Messenger:

1. Measure diagonally across your screen (only the screen, not the frame or edges).

2. Round down to the nearest whole inch (e.g., 15.6” becomes 15”).

3. If your measurement is equal to or smaller than the size given your device will fit. If larger, consider a different bag size.

Example: A 14-inch laptop will fit any piece labeled for up to 15-inch devices

What can I fit inside The Messenger?

The Messenger has many compartments to keep your items organized. 

There are separate dedicated compartments to hold your laptop, tablet, airtag, journal, sunglasses, business cards, mouse, charging cable, passport, documents, book, wallet, phone, pen and keys.

How will the leather change with use?

Our Italian full grain vegetable tanned leather is designed to become richer with age.

As the leather is handled and used, its colour will gradually deepen and a distinctive patina will develop.

Natural variations in grain, tone and markings are also part of the character of full-grain leather, meaning no two pieces will age in exactly the same way.

How heavy is The Messenger, and is it comfortable to carry?

The Messenger weighs a comfortable 3.75lbs (1.7kg) when empty.

Weight was carefully considered from the outset. We deliberately balanced substantial full grain, vegetable tanned leather, stainless steel hardware and reinforced construction with the need for a piece that remains practical to carry every day.

The result is a piece with the reassuring substance of quality materials, without any unnecessary weight.

With different carry options available, we guarantee a comfortable carry for all body types.

How do I care for your leather?

To keep your leather goods looking their best, we recommend cleaning, conditioning and waterproofing them approximately once every three months with our Leather Care Kit.

The kit has been formulated specifically for our leather, helping to nourish and protect it without compromising its natural character or patina.

Avoid excessive or prolonged exposure to water. If the leather becomes wet, remove excess moisture and allow it to dry naturally at room temperature, away from direct heat.

For more detailed guidance, read our leather care guide.

Where will my order ship from, and will I pay tariffs or duties?

All US orders ship directly from our warehouse in Missouri, USA with complimentary shipping included in all orders.

We guarantee no import tariffs, customs duties or additional charges to pay when your order arrives.

Your order will be processed within 1-2 days, and delivery typically takes 2-4 days.

Can I return or exchange my order?

We offer hassle-free returns within 30 days provided your item is in its original condition and packaging. 

Concierge recommended exchanges are also available.

Read more on our Returns Policy.

Is your checkout safe and secure?

Yes. Our site uses full SSL encryption and secure payment providers. We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, and pay-in-4 options.

How can I contact customer support?

Our experts are here to help. Reach out anytime via our contact page and we’ll get back to you quickly.

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Whether it’s walking into a new job, the daily commute or a weekend getaway, over 50,000 lawyers, bankers and executives trust our leather bags to help them carry with confidence.

Rated 4.8/5 stars from over a thousand verified reviews, our timeless designs and heirloom quality craftsmanship are built to impress - wherever life takes you.

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50,000+ Heirloom Bags Shipped

Whether it’s walking into a new job, the daily commute or a weekend getaway, over 50,000 lawyers, bankers and executives trust our leather bags to help them carry with confidence.

Rated 4.8/5 stars from over a thousand verified reviews, our timeless designs and heirloom quality craftsmanship are built to impress - wherever life takes you.

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Crafted for Those
Who Expect More

From a quiet attic workshop in rural England to 50,000 professionals worldwide, our story is rooted in legacy, craftsmanship, and purpose.

Discover how a grandfather’s lesson led to something truly lasting.

READ OUR STORY
Frame 2 (14) (1).jpg__PID:6a8f6c91-73e1-4969-9fa0-66f6f9e2951b

Crafted for Those
Who Expect More

From a quiet attic workshop in rural England to 50,000 professionals worldwide, our story is rooted in legacy, craftsmanship, and purpose.

Discover how a grandfather’s lesson led to something truly lasting.

READ OUR STORY