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Essential Modern Briefcase reviews

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Customers say

AI summary

The Essential is reviewed most for its size: 38 of 90 reviews describe what fits inside, and 34 mention quality or craftsmanship. Of the 6 reviews under five stars, one finds it slimmer than needed, one found it stiff at first, one dislikes the edges of the shoulder strap, one mentions a slow delivery and one found the color closer to cognac than dark brown. One 1-star review says the leather looked different from the photos.

Generated by AI from the text of all 90 reviews of the Essential, including the lower ratings, on November 12, 2026.

Watch it reviewed2 videos

Reviews90

Mentioned in reviews
Showing all 90 reviews, most recent first
A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

A bit too small for me, but it’s fine

I wish I had more space on days when I need to carry 5-6 books, but for a normal office work the slimmer size is a better option.

IO
Isabella O.
Verified buyer

Still OK after regular use

Several months in, the bag has picked up a little character but still looks great. I use it most weekdays and haven't felt the need to switch to another work bag.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

I needed a spacious bag

The laptop has its place, papers can go in the back pocket, and the remaining space is open enough for the charger, notebook and headphones. Simple always works for me.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

Looks slim but actually quite spacious

From the side it looks narrower than my previous briefcase, so I assumed I would have to carry less stuff. In reality the space is very generous. Took 4 days to get it, I am from Melbourn AU.

OB
Olivia B.
Verified buyer

A gift that became the daily bag

This was for my partner, who had been swtiching between an oldschool messenger bag and a cheap laptop sleeve. He loved this one almost immediately. The biggest difference for him has been having one place for the laptop and work papers without carrying a much larger bag. The design is prefect, and the back pocket gives him quick access to smaller items when he is moving between meetings.

CA
Craig A.
Verified buyer

I am a retired professional

Because I'm only in the office a few days a week, I didn't want a huge briefcase taking up space at home. This one carries my essentials and still feels compact enough for the days I commute.

PD
Paul D.
Verified buyer

Easy access to your stuff

Very spacious and easy to use. Love the fact that my mac and papers are separated. Brilliant bag.

NG
Nathan G.
Verified buyer

Elegant and simple

I started a new office job and wanted something that looked more put together than the backpack I had been using. The Essential feels professional, I usually carry a laptop, charger, notebook, pens and a small folder. All of that fits comfortably, and the outside pocket is perfect for my slim wallet and iphone.

PR
Peter R.
Verified buyer

Daily bag

This is my new fav bag for business and meetings. Love the combination of brass hardware and black leather.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

A tidy commute

On the bus I appreciate the slim profile more than anything. It stays close to me, yet still takes my computer, power adapter and two notebooks without feeling awkward. The back pocket is convenient for a ticket or papers I need quickly.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

Firm at the beginning

The leather arrived firmer than I expected. After regular use it has eased up a little, but the bag still holds its shape. I prefer that to something soft that folds in on itself when I put it down.

JB
Jim B.
Verified buyer

VERY PRACTICAL

What I like most is that it doesn't feel locked into one kind of day. It looks great with a jacket for a meeting, but I have also carried it with jeans when working from a cafe. The shape is neat, the laptop has its own protected space, and I can still fit the small things I normally need. That balance was more important to me than having maximum capacity.

SL
Siim L.
Verified buyer

Essential in brown color

Perfect for my macbook pro. A notebook and charger sit beside it, and papers usually stay in the back pocket. Great minimalist design overall.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

The outside pocket helps

The laptop pocket is the part I reach for most. I keep documents there instead of mixing them with everything inside.

CC
Charles C.
Verified buyer

Good for meeting days

Laptop, notebook and a few papers fit without turning it into a bulky work bag. Leather shoulder strap is a great addition. I am glad it’s not a cheap canvas strap.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

Simple work setup

Clean shape, love all the extra pockets and compartments. No flashy brand logos, exactly what I needed.

P
Philippe
Belgium·Verified buyer

Très content de la rapidité de la livraison, du modèle et de la qualité du cuir mais déçu par la couleur qui tire vers le cognac et qui ne correpond pas à un brun foncé. Je vais essayer de le faire foncer auprès d’un spécialiste du cuir.

Color: Solid Brown
MR
Michael R.
Verified buyer

so far so good

got it a few days ago and started using it right away. so far so good no complaints

MR
Mark R.
Verified buyer

Briefcase and casual in one

I bought this mainly because I wanted something that could work as both a briefcase and a more casual bag. I use it most days going into the office. The laptop section is useful and the back pocket has ended up being where I keep papers and things I dont want inside the main compartment.

A
Anonymous
Verified buyer

A little stiff at first

I had an older leather bag that was getting pretty worn out so I decided to replace it with this one. The size is probably the best thing for me. I can get my laptop, charger and a notebook in without having to force everything in. It is a little stiffer than I expected at first but I think thats just because its new. Overall happy with it.

RC
Ryan C.
Verified buyer

Good size for the office

Got the Essential for work and so far I like it a lot. Good size, not too big. Laptop fits easily and it doesnt feel bulky when I carry it.

SH
Sean H.
Verified buyer

does the job for work

Really nice bag. Fits my laptop and everything I need for work.

K
Katya
United States·Verified buyer

Doesn’t look like on picture. Instead of smooth leather it is all wrinkled and doesn’t look like a quality leather. Disappointed.

Reply from Von BaerOur Essential Modern Briefcase is crafted from Cuoio Superiore full-grain leather, the highest grade available. Unlike processed alternatives, it retains its natural surface, including texture variations, grain differences, and wrinkles. These aren't flaws - they're proof the leather hasn't been chemically treated to appear uniform. We show and explain this on the product page with photos.
Color: Elegant Black
JY
Jackson Y.
Verified buyer

Compliments day one

i ordered the messenger bag and honestly it was really nice right out of the box. A couple people noticed it the first day which I didn’t expect. Fits all of my stuff perfectly... my laptop and a few notebooks slide right in. no complaints at all tbh, definitly glad i got it.

HK
Henry K.
Verified buyer

Perfect for daily use

Bought the Essential bag in dark brown and its perfect for daily use. Leather smells incredible when you first open it and the quality is way better than those designer brands that charge double just for a logo, really happy with this purchase would definitely buy from them again.

BI
Brian I.
Verified buyer

unexpected favorite

I received a laptop bag as a gift and ended up using it more than I expected. definitly worth every penny.

CB
Charles B.
Verified buyer

Matches my outfits

Ended up buying black briefcase and it exceeded my expectations. Very satisfied with the quality, superb leather and hardware, nice laptop compartment, and it matches my office outfits perfectly!

JG
Justin G.
Verified buyer

Smart-looking, spacious

I needed a laptop bag that looked smart for work trips, and I’m glad I picked the Essential briefcase. It held everything – documents, laptop, even a spare shirt – and still looked slim. Would def recommend.

LA
Luke A.
Verified buyer

unbeatable

The bag is unbeatable for quality. Very well made with great leather. Arrived nicely packaged and shipping was super fast even at Christmas. I'd happily buy from their online store again

CT
Carter T.
Verified buyer

sharp and practical

Overall, I’m happy with my purchase. The essential bag looks sharp and holds all my stuff. Zippers are sturdy, leather feels premium. It’s a bit heavier than I expected, but that’s because it’s real leather. Packaging was decent, and it arrived just 2 days after I ordered it.

H
HE
Singapore·Verified buyer

Love my new work bag! Pretty much can fit all my essentials

Color: Solid Brown
DT
David T.
Verified buyer

Quick and great

awesome bag! exceeded expectations and looks exactly like the photos. shipping was extremely quick

LC
Lincoln C.
Verified buyer

Fits my 15in macbook

Ordered a black laptop bag from the website for my 15inch macbook. Quality and craftsmanship are solid. Great for everyday use.

AS
Alexander S.
Verified buyer

best ive owned

Best leather laptop bag ever. Worth every penny honestly

ML
Marcus L.
Verified buyer

Feels different

I’ve had cheaper leather bags before and this definitely feels different.

A
Anonymous
UAE·Verified buyer

I like the quality of the bags.

Highly recommended.

Color: Solid Brown
TR
Tyler R.
Verified buyer

Coworker was right

My coworker recommended Von Baer. He had the same bag, and I kept asking where he got it. Now we both show up to meetings with the same one. Love it

OP
Olga P.
United States·Verified buyer

Olgapalomin4@gmail.com

Best purchase ever! Great leather and craftsmanship.

Color: Classic Tan
CS
Charles S.
Verified buyer

No big logos, love that

Just a little feedback on the laptop bag: the leather feels so nice and I love all the small compartments inside. I found the bag quite practical and also enjoyed that there are no big logos. It feels very premium. Otherwise I would be disappointed considering the price. I can totally recommend it!

JC
John C.
United States·Verified buyer

Very high quality leather. Size and layout is perfect for business travel without being too bulky.

I would highly recommend this briefcase.

Color: Solid Brown
MR
Meletis R.
Greece·Verified buyer

I've bought the essentials bag. Great quality and extraordinary space fit the use I want (I carry a laptop, I pad, 5 chargers, sunglasses etc).

Definitely yes. Cost-effective and great quality. The brand covers all the designs and should be the first option to consider

Customer photo of the Essential
VP
Violet P.
Verified buyer

Husband loves it, thank you

Thank you Von Baer! The laptop bag is absolutely gorgeous and my husband loves it. The quality is excellent and it even smells amazing. Will definitely be purchasing more items in the future

CW
Christopher W.
Verified buyer

Made with care

You can tell the Essential bag’s been made with care. The leather feels thick but still soft, and the zips are really solid. Very pleased so far.

LG
Lucas G.
Canada·Verified buyer

I love this bag so much

It is the most beautiful work bag I have ever seen. I use it everyday for work in NYC.

AY
Ashley Y.
United States·Verified buyer

The quality of the leather and design of the bag is beautiful!

It’s so well made and designed- it’s beautiful and useful. My husband loves it!

Color: Solid Brown
SC
Steven C.
United States·Verified buyer

Fantastic Bag, Uncomfortable Shoulder Strap

The bag is sleek and buttery. Fits everything I could ever want for a “laptop briefcase”. Only reason not a 5 is the should strap- the edges of the strap aren’t smoothed down and kinda dig into my shoulder. Padding?

Reply from Von BaerDear Steven, Thank you for your valuable insights and for being our customer. We chose not to include extra padding in the shoulder strap because our leather is designed to adapt to your shoulder with use, and it should become comfortable fairly quickly. Sincerely, Von Baer Team
Color: Classic Tan
GK
Gaurav K.
United States·Verified buyer

Perfect Briefcase!

Well made, thoughtful design, soft & great quality leather, and looks great!

Color: Classic Tan
VK
Vojtech K.
Czechia·Verified buyer

Thank you & perfect

Amazing quality of products. For men as well as for women. Shipping is the fastest what I know. Only recommended!

Color: Classic Tan
CL
Christina L.
United States·Verified buyer

Very classy and exceptional

I got this for my Husband and it is outstanding . I wanted to choose between Mont Blanc and this one . It is Elegant and efficient all at the same time . I highly recommend !!!

Color: Solid Brown
SM
Sarah M.
United States·Verified buyer

Really high quality

From craftsmanship to hardware, everything is high quality!

DD
Damian D.
Poland·Verified buyer

Great!

It’s amazing quality of bag. The leather is very nice. Finishing is perfect.

Color: Solid Brown
JF
Jonas F.
Belgium·Verified buyer

Outstanding quality!

Outstanding quality! The leather is thick, the stitching is perfect and the overall feel is one of luxury and durability. It’s got enough room for my laptop, documents, and even a few personal items. The design is classic and professional, which is exactly what I was looking for.

JV
Jacco V.
Singapore·Verified buyer

Super fast seemless delivery

Haven’t used it yet but website ordering and delivery was easy and fast.

Color: Solid Brown
OS
Oliver S.
United States·Verified buyer

The best investment I’ve made

I’ve had my fair share of briefcases over the years but this one tops them all. It’s an investment worth every penny.

MN
Markus N.
Finland·Verified buyer

Built to Last

This briefcase is built like a tank, you just know it’s made to last.

MD
Marc D.
Switzerland·Verified buyer

Sleek and professional

Been using this briefcase for a few months now and it’s everything I was looking for. The leather is ageing well and I can already tell that it’ll be my companion for a while. It’s just the right size to fit my essentials without feeling bulky. I think I also really appreciate the sleek design because it makes it look professional without being too flashy. It has also held up well against the occasional rain shower. I ensure to leave it to dry anytime it’s wet. I think that’s another reason it has stayed in great shape even with the contant use and battle against weather elements. Quality leather products require to be used with care anyway.

AE
Andres E.
Belgium·Verified buyer

It exceeded my expectations

I’ve owned a lot of briefcases but this one is in a league of its own. I’m very pleased with my purchase.

GS
George S.
United States·Verified buyer

Excellent Quality

The briefcase was excellent. Very high quality, and exactly as presented on the website.

AA
Abdullah A.
UAE·Verified buyer

I will patronize them again

This is my first time buying anything from here but it won't be the last time. The bag is super high-quality! I bought the bag and cream. I appreciate that it came along with a special cleaning cloth.

LB
Lucas B.
United States·Verified buyer

worth every dollar

I wasnt sure about spending this much on a briefcase but now I can confidently say it’s worth every dollar. The leather is top-tier and the attention to detail is impressive. It’s spacious enough for my laptop, files, and even my monthly read!

RO
Rita O.
Portugal·Verified buyer

A Must-Have for Professionals

Wow, exactly what I needed for my work life. It’s spacious enough for my laptop, documents, and a few personal items, but it still maintains a sleek profile… seriously, I love how it doesn’t bulge. I also love the subtle branding-nothing too flashy. And the pockets? The are a lifesaver, even pockets for pens…. If you’re looking for something both practical and stylish, this is it.

ED
Emilia D.
United Kingdom·Verified buyer

Over a year and still in great condition

This briefcase is a must-have for any professional. It's so well-made and looks amazing. I love the way it feels in my hand and the fact that it's so spacious. I've been using it for over a year now, and it's still in perfect condition

LO
Liam O.
Canada·Verified buyer

It’s what you need for business travels

As someone who travels frequently for business, I needed a briefcase that could handle the rigours of travel while still looking professional. This VB bag has proven to be what I needed. The leather is absolutely great and the compartments are just so functional and practical. I can fit my laptop, a tablet, chargers, and more with ease. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle being tossed around at airports.

GT
Grace T.
United States·Verified buyer

I love love love this briefcase

I absolutely love this briefcase! It’s clear a lot of thought went into its design and it’s not just about looks, this bag is incredibly practical too. I can fit my laptop, charger, notebook, and a few other essentials without it feeling too heavy. The hardware details add a nice touch of class in addition to support.

PB
Patrick B.
United States·Verified buyer

ESSENTIAL MODERN BRIEFCASE

I highly recommend this briefcase. The craftsmanship is impressive. It’s has more storage space than I had anticipated.

EJ
Eric J.
United States·Verified buyer

I am really really really impressed

I hardly leave reviews except when beyond impressed and that rarely happens. This is one of those rare occasions. I obviously expected this briefcase to be high quality because that’s the only reason why anyone will shell out this sum for a bag. But I didn’t expect to be this impressed. The quality of this briefcase is unmatched. Every aspect of it stands out compared to other leather briefcases and laptop bags I have or used to have. Even the actual engraving of my name on the leather looked much better than the visualization they sent me. Also, the gift packaging was a nice touch, I was really pleased.

MF
Mark F.
Germany·Verified buyer

Stunning Briefcase

The quality Tis really there. The leather is rich and supple and the stitching is flawless. Very satisfied!

AD
Arthur D.
Belgium·Verified buyer

Functional and classy

Expensive but really high quality. It is functional and classy

JL
Jason L.
Hong Kong·Verified buyer

Perfect for those who love their things well organized

There's a place for everything... keeps my stuff weell organized and easy to access.

BB
Ben B.
Switzerland·Verified buyer

A perfect gift

Bought it as a gift for my dad and he loves it. It's a beautiful piece of craftsmanship and very practical. He's a professor and has been taking it to college ever since since he got it.

JL
Joe L.
United States·Verified buyer

I'm hard to impressed but this has left me impressed

As someone who's been working in finance for over a decade, I've seen my fair share of briefcases. This one, thoug? It’s in a league of its own. The leather is top-notch and it has this weight to it that screams quality. It’s not just about carrying my laptop and documents, it makes a statement when I walk into meetings with clients. The compliments from colleagues don’t hurt either. I used it for a little over a year before deciding to leave a comment. So, if you’re looking to invest in a bag that’ll probably outlast your career, this is it.

HW
Henry W.
United States·Verified buyer

It's hard not to notice

I was drawn to this briefcase because it perfectly balances tradition with modern needs. The design is timeless, reminds me of old-school craftsmanship but the functionality is very much up-to-date. I work in tech and while most of my colleagues carry backpacks, this briefcase sets me apart in a good way. The leather is top quality, and the compartments are just right for my laptop and documents. I particularly love that side where it opens up nearly completely; It makes things so much easier. Also, it’s not too flashy but it definitely gets noticed.

RT
Rob T.
United States·Verified buyer

Highly recommend

I highly recommend this briefcase. The quality is exceptional, and it looks very professional. Great value for money!

RP
Richard P.
United States·Verified buyer

Looks really nice

It looks nice and is also as functional as I expected. Having my initials on it makes me love it even more.

DW
Deborah W.
United States·Verified buyer

Essential Computer Bag

I bought this as an anniversary present for my husband and he was very pleased with every aspect of the case. He absolutely loved it. Thank you!

Reply from Von BaerThank you for your feedback, Deborah. We are really please to aknowledge that your present was very much appreciated 😊!
EB
Elena B.
United States·Verified buyer

What's not to love?

I’m seriously in love with this briefcase. The design is so chic and yet I can fit my laptop, charger, docs and still have room to spare. The best part? It keeps a slim profile even when it’s full. And knowing it was handmade in Italy just adds to the charm. If you appreciate fine craftsmanship, this is the bag for you.

DW
Damon W.
United States·Verified buyer

Highly recommend!

Would definitely recommend it to anyone who needs a stylish yet functional briefcase

AA
Amy A.
Germany·Verified buyer

They attended to me well

Very good service!

RG
Ryan G.
United Kingdom·Verified buyer

5 stars

Nice bag, prompt delivery.

AC
Alex C.
United States·Verified buyer

it's high quality

This briefcase has become a staple in my daily routine.

JL
Johnny L.
United Kingdom·Verified buyer

I'm pleased

Just got my briefcase and I couldn’t be more pleased. The craftsmanship is top-tier and the leather appears to be really high quality. It arrived earlier than expected, too, which was a pleasant surprise. Love the solid brown colour, it’s so classy and professional. If you are looking for something that’d double as both a cool briefcase and a spacious laptop bag, this is the one!

MT
Michael T.
United States·Verified buyer

fantastic craftsmanship!

I had bought one previously for my friend as a birthday gift and decided to get one for myself because he keeps talking about the quality of the bag. And for real, it is by far the best briefcase I’ve ever owned. I was also impressed with the customer service. I had a few questions about the embossing and they werere fast with their responses, helpful responses too!

SW
Sophia W.
Hong Kong·Verified buyer

A reliable work companion

It has quickly become my go-to for daily work use and even though I’m often moving between meetings in the city, this bag has continue to hold up really well. I don’t regret spending as much as I did on it.

MK
Mo K.
UAE·Verified buyer

Outstanding!

The quality of this briefcase is outstanding. The leather feels premiium and the stitching is neat. Highly recommend!

JB
Jessica B.
United States·Verified buyer

Beautiful Bag but Delivery Was Slow

i adore this briefcase, the leather is gorgeous, and it’s very well-made. My only issue was with the delivery - it took a bit longer than expected to arrive. That being said, the wait was worth it because the bag is stunning and exactly what I was looking for.

JB
John B.
United States·Verified buyer

Perfect for business & travel

An outstanding briefcase through and through! The leather feels incredibly premium and has this really nice, rich scent to it… It’s something I love about actual leather. Meanwhile, I was impressed by how much I could fit inside without it looking bulky. I travel a lot for work and this case makes it so much easier to stay organized on the go. The compartments are well thought out, especially the laptop sleeve, fits my 15 inch perfectly.

JH
Jacob H.
Canada·Verified buyer

Nice bag!

I wished for a bag that was made of fine materials and was put together well. And this is the perfect one. It's seriously one of the best things I've ever bought.

PC
Paul C.
United Kingdom·Verified buyer

Brilliant Laptop Bag.

I would have preferred to purchase the item with my Credit Vard. However, Pay Pal saved the day. Maybe, as a company should be focused on providing this on the Website in the near future. However, I am very pleased. The item arrived almost the next day after I completed the transaction. Overall, impressed with the packaging and the presentation in the box. Thanks for adding the Card Wallet as a gift. That’s a nice touch. First impression, the leather and finishing is to a very high standard. Materials on the strap seem to be very robust and sturdy. Probably, a good thing with all the weight being held with the metal buckles on the strap fixing on the bag. After heavy use since I received it two weeks ago. The leather is becoming very supple. I would have preferred the tan leather, but, unfortunately this was out of stock. So, I settled with the Black.

Reply from Von BaerThank you very much for your valuable feedback, Paul! Now it is possible to purchase our products with credit card as well.
FB
Frank B.
Australia·Verified buyer

A great present

I bought it as a present. The bag is skillfully designed and manufactured.

MA
Mike A.
United States·Verified buyer

Irl better than online

If you like what you see online don't hesitate to buy it because it looks even better in real life!

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