This is a stunning, highly unique belt that (in a way) is serves as a time capsule to the 1980s! I would venture to say that this is the most exquisitely conditioned legitimate 80s era belt I've seen in my many, many years as a vintage leather goods collector. It seems almost implausible... to have such a soft, plush, malleable work of leather dating way back in the day as this piece does. Leather aside, the actual buckle component of this piece is what (in my mind) makes it so undeniably unique. The genius behind the buckle leaves me absolutely perplexed. This is the only belt I've ever seen with such a buckle - and it leaves me wondering why this style buckle is not done more? At any rate, this belt fits perfectly with the modern day steampunk aesthetic... on top of that, good luck finding anything with a steampunk aesthetic that is made of high quality, durable components. They made things differently back in the day... they were made to last - and last this stunning, unique vintage '80s oddity has. 

Background: 

I purchased this belt way back in the day from a luxury boutique on Melrose Avenue in Los, Angeles. At the time, I was immediately struck by the originality of the design. Additionally, I had a few different pieces from the artist/designer - (Isaiah Kincaid) and whenever I came across a work of his, I could never pass up the opportunity to take it home. That said, soon after taking this belt home - my wife and I moved across country. We packed up everything, hastily, and shoved it all onto a moving truck. Somehow or another, this piece ended up in storage! Before I'd even had the chance to really wear it. At any rate, this piece has been sitting in storage for DECADES at this point. Luckily, the unit my wife and I chose is climate controlled (: which I would attribute to the belts absolutely beautiful condition. 

The Belt Itself: 

This belt is composed of a THICK, plush, malleable and warm brown leather. It is not frayed, torn, stained, flaking away, tough, or anything of the like. Again, this is no thin strip of imitation leather... this is thick, solid - heavy gauge 100% leather - made to last, and last it has. 

The Buckle: 

While the leather is indeed stunning on this belt, the star of the show is no doubt the buckle itself. The buckle on this belt is - quite frankly - one of the most beautifully/uniquely designed I have seen. It is HEAVY, and very, very solid. The designer is known for taking mechanical elements that once served other purposes, and incorporating them into functional items of jewelry, or clothing. The beauty of this belt's design is that there is simply no way it would ever come off once fastened, but it also happens to be ludicrously easy to fasten and unfasten. To get this buckle to open, you simply pull on the bottom half. It is "spring loaded." Once you pull on the bottom piece, the latch immediately opens - and frees up the loop. Again, extremely effective - and such an ingenious design. I mentioned before I truly do not understand why this style buckle is not used more often. It is beautiful, effective, and incredibly easy to use. If I had to guess why this style buckle has not been adapted, I would venture to say it is likely because of the weight derived from all the buckle parts and pieces. This buckle is indeed solid brass - which makes it weigh in at approximately 12 OUNCES. The brass is bright, warm, radiant - and still with a beautiful luster despite the passage of so many years! 

Dimensions: 

Belt is marked "32" for a 32 inch waist. Can gain an inch or two by adjusting the peg that holds the loop in place to allow for more belt length. 

Overall, this is a stunning piece - one that I can guarantee you will not find elsewhere. If you look vintage - and you are a fan of the steampunk aesthetic - this is certainly a must have for you! This belt has ALWAYS brought up conversation... people are fascinated when they see it - and immediately want to know more about its design. 

~If you have any further questions, or would like to see any additional photos, please do not hesitate to reach out in the form of an email. I will get back to you promptly.