A question about the price/value of tack (generally)

[PapaFrita]

Have been browsing eBay again (BAD PF!) and came across a bridle that apparently cost 400 quid new. WHY? I mean, I understand that quality leather has a price and if you pay pennies you get crap. HOWEVER, can anyone explain what makes a bridle worth so much?
Upto what point (pricewise) are you paying for quality leather/workmanship, and when about fashion/ a popular name/ trendy design??
Thanks

 

[Malibu]

I think that wheer it is made is significant to the price, a renowned name, is used by the prof. Materials used and source of materials - i pay good money for tack that i know looks good, good history, good quality and comfortable for my horses.

 

[PapaFrita]

Sure, but don't you think 400 pounds is a bit excessive? I mean, what do you get for 400 that you don't get for 80?

 

[wizzi901]

for £400 it would have to be platinum buckles and diamonds embedded in every piece of leather for me!!

I simply could not justify that amount on any bridle at whatever level even if I won the lottery!

 

[PapaFrita]

LOL! Exactly! I just wondered what made a bridle worth that much and what would make someone buy it?
Any ideas??

 

[Tia]

Passier rolled bridles are around this price and I have to say that although they may not be worth the money to a lot of people, I think they are absolutely beautiful and the craftsmanship involved is superior.

 

[PapaFrita]

OOh you're so clever! It WAS indeed a Passier bridle

 

[Toby_Zaphod]

My OH used to be a bridle stitcher by trade & the bridles she made were all hand cut & hand stitched. Those bridles cost alot then & would cost a fortune now. So many bridles, even the top brands are all machine made now. For quality hand made stuff it costs a fortune.

Regarding whom would buy it..... some people buy Armani, some buy Marks & Spencer?

 

[KatB]

Hmm, I think upto a point you pay for the quality, and with the rolled bridles I suppose they take time and alot of work to get them right, but still alot of money IMO!! Though suppose If won the lottery...

 

[vanillie10]

The saddler based at our yard will make bridles to measure for you, all hand made, best leathers etc. She made a gorgeous London tan one for a show hunter - think it was around £200 with the reins. The sort of thing that I would not buy for myself but would be thrilled if Santa brought!
She also makes side saddles which START from £2000....

 

[PapaFrita]

See, it makes alot more sense if you get something made to measure, especially if you're into showing and 200 compared to the one I saw seems quite reasonable!

I still can't get my head round 400 for 'off the peg'. Having said that, I've not seen the bridle in question in the flesh, so to speak. Perhaps I would be so bowled over by its beauty that I would feel compelled to buy it... but I doubt it

 

[LEC]

I was looking at the picture of Dolendo in H&H and his bridle is beautiful - I had a good look at it as so immaculate and the rolled leather but wow £400 - I can see how they can get the price to £200 but not how it can be worth that much.