Nestled in the modern neighborhood of Kwun Tong in Hong Kong, Nardos Vintage is a haven for craftsmanship and heritage. Founded by Heison Kwok, the studio specializes in handcrafting leather goods inspired by iconic symbols of Hong Kong, such as carved shopfront gates and traditional metal postboxes. The moment you step into Nardos Vintage, a rich aroma of coffee and leather greets you, sharing the space with a friend’s coffee bean business.
Heison Kwok’s passion for leather crafting is evident in every corner of the studio. His workbench, cluttered with an array of tools and brass stamps, showcases the organized chaos of a master craftsman. Leather spools and scraps are neatly arranged, reflecting Kwok’s commitment to minimizing waste. He sources high-quality leather from Sham Shui Po and Japan, with the finest shell cordovan leather imported from Italy, known for its luxurious and glossy finish.
The studio’s decor pays homage to Hong Kong’s fast-disappearing heritage, with a neon-light inspired by pawn shop signs and a prominent ‘Made in Hong Kong’ display in Chinese characters. Kwok’s craft is a labor of love, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality. He demonstrates this by skillfully cutting and customizing leather pieces, adding unique touches like gold acrylic paint for a distinctive look.
Nardos Vintage offers a range of customizable leather products, from bags and passport holders to key rings and cardholders. Clients can choose their preferred leather and thread colors, making each item uniquely theirs. Kwok emphasizes the importance of leather care, recommending conditioning pastes like Fiebing’s Golden Mink Oil to maintain the material’s suppleness.
Beyond the craftsmanship, Kwok infuses his creations with sentiment and memories of the past. The studio’s name, ‘Nardos,’ reflects his Christian faith, and his designs echo the robust spirit and resilience of Hong Kong people, symbolized by the carved iron gates. These gates, a nostalgic emblem of the city, resonate with customers, reminding them of their childhood and the enduring spirit of Hong Kong under the Lion Rock.
Nardos Vintage has garnered a following not only in Hong Kong but also in Japan, Taiwan, and Canada. Kwok takes pride in photographing his products, ensuring each shot captures the essence of his work. More than just selling products, Kwok sells memories and a piece of Hong Kong’s heritage, stitching sentiment and emotion into every handcrafted item he creates.
READ MORE: