| "Why restore? My Silver Saddle is in great condition!" I hear this statement from everyone and I am sure they believe it, but the truth is these parade saddles have all been made more than 45 years ago and they are deteriorating just due to their age. Leather dries, cracks and has chemical reactions going on continuously without regard to the care and oil you give it. The stitching is failing due to age with primarily the glue holding the pieces together. The copper (rivets in the conchos) is reacting with the acids in the leather and creating a waxy substance called "verdigris" which permeates throughout. These things greatly decrease the life and the value of the parade saddle. Without skilled restoration these saddles will soon disappear forever. Call me and let us discuss what it takes to preserve your investment in these wonderful saddles ... true icons of the American West of the 1940's and '50's. (click on any each picture to see greater details) |