Aero Leather Clothing trial update

[Big J]

AL's response was entirely predictable:



AL: Did you really think it would be that easy? Did you really think you could purge your prior acknowledgements and thereby erase the truth? Sorry to disappoint, but the truth has been preserved.

The following is a snapshot of AL's YouTube "About Us" description that AL removed in response to this thread:

The following is a snapshot of AL's website from 2013, as derived from Web Archive / Wayback Machine:

The following is a snapshot of the DenimHunter's article regarding AL (including an interview), wherein the author noted that "Will is the production manager at Alexander Leathers."

The following are snapshots of statements regarding AL found on the websites of AL retailers:

Purge all you want AL, but the truth is out.

Superfluous, thank you for all your hard work on this matter. I certainly never would have noticed if you hadn't shown all this stuff to is like this. I think it's really worrying that there seems to be a kind of 'fire sale' on the truth over there. Everything must go!
Not the actions of anyone I'd want to trust with my money.
If they've done nothing wrong, they shouldn't have anything to hide.

 

[Sloan1874]

Superfluous, thank you for all your hard work on this matter. I certainly never would have noticed if you hadn't shown all this stuff to is like this. I think it's really worrying that there seems to be a kind of 'fire sale' on the truth over there. Everything must go!
Not the actions of anyone I'd want to trust with my money.
If they've done nothing wrong, they shouldn't have anything to hide.

+1

 

[Fanch]

Superfluous, I pity anyone who might have to face you on the other side of a courtroom. :eeek: That was absolutely brilliant!!

 

[HoosierDaddy]

That's why you see various worried fingers turned and pointed our way in attempts to discredit us. The more they can convince others that the deceitful agenda is on our end, they feel the better chance of influencing some to not even bother sifting through threads here.
Our conversations may sometimes seem to get tiresome, and there are those who suggest out of place, but through it all most members are searching for truth even with lengthy debates attempting to also somehow understand.

 

[Big J]

So, AL is alleging that they had mail from customers claiming (he said, she said?) that they had been sent some statement about the trial from Aero?
Well, Wanz and Fanch haven't had such a mail, and neither have I.
I don't see how Aero could selectively only mail those customers that would scurry off to AL to report on the fact.
Has anyone here received such a mail? Please let us know, because it looks like BS to me, and I reckon the allegation will get deleted from thier website if no one here has had such a mail.

For the record, my personal belief is that if there was no Internet, and no Lounge, none of us would have known anything about this trial unless we read Sloans newspaper because I really don't think that Ken Calder is the kind of guy to go spreading sob stories for sympathy, nor slander others. I'm pretty sure that if this case hadn't have received any Internet attention, Ken would have quietly just got on with the business of his business. That's the kind of guy he is.

 

[AdeeC]

As an Aero customer I can confirm I have never received such email. Further, if such emails were sent out willy-nilly, at least someone would have reported and presented it here by now given the wide interest and readership of this thread(In excess of 65,000 views in 3 weeks).

Many thanks to Sloan for meticulous in depth reporting and to Superfluous for his dogged gumshoe work.

 

[tropicalbob]

In an odd left of centre way I'm reminded Fawlty Towers....Basil just getting in deeper and deeper.....dreadful cover ups and just getting in more and more trouble every second.....and poor old Manwell getting knocked about and clipped under the ear every 5 minutes....

Left of centre? Don't forget, we're all "fellow travelers" engaged in a "dimly lit basement slanging match." Sloan, this novel is writing itself. And "slanging?"

 

[Sloan1874]

I prefer "slagging", it's much more descriptive.

 

[Big J]

That's why you see various worried fingers turned and pointed our way in attempts to discredit us. The more they can convince others that the deceitful agenda is on our end, they feel the better chance of influencing some to not even bother sifting through threads here.
Our conversations may sometimes seem to get tiresome, and there are those who suggest out of place, but through it all most members are searching for truth even with lengthy debates attempting to also somehow understand.

And HD, however stupid we may seem, we NEVER threaten people with lawyers. Yes, I'm looking at you Alexander Leathers. I can tell you now, threatening me/us with lawyers while you furiously delete and re-write your web pages doesn't make you the paragon of ethical business in my book.

 

[Monitor]

Superfluous, I pity anyone who might have to face you on the other side of a courtroom. :eeek: That was absolutely brilliant!!

Yeah, seconded. I love Superfluous but man, I'm scared to death of him.

 

[pawineguy]

Great stuff today guys. Thank you to the big boss who let us continue to discuss this important topic. At the end of the day, we all get to vote with our $$ and I for one know where mine are going. (and conversely, where they will NEVER go)

 

[Superfluous]

And HD, however stupid we may seem, we NEVER threaten people with lawyers. Yes, I'm looking at you Alexander Leathers. I can tell you now, threatening me/us with lawyers while you furiously delete and re-write your web pages doesn't make you the paragon of ethical business in my book.

^ This

Alexander Thomas Alexander and Paul Kenny: We know you're watching this thread. How about revising your prior "statement" and while you're at it, answering a few simple questions:

1. Was Alexander Leathers formed after a chance meeting between Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder?

2. Did Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder share a passion for all things vintage -- leather jackets in particular -- which led them to embark on a quest?

3. Was it Sandy Alexander's and Will Lauder's aim to recreate the timeless design classics of bygone eras with an updated modern fit and interpretation?

4. Did Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder bring together a team of artisan specialists in Selkirk, with over 242 years experience in the art of vintage leather jacket construction?

5. Is Alexander Leathers the creation of Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder?

6. Was Will Lauder ever AL's production manager?

7. Why did you remove and/or change the descriptions of AL's inception?

8. Last but definitely not least, what is your response to the findings regarding similarities between Aero and AL jackets?

Stop making threats and, instead, answer these simple questions.

 

[Superfluous]

Great stuff today guys. Thank you to the big boss who let us continue to discuss this important topic. At the end of the day, we all get to vote with our $$ and I for one know where mine are going. (and conversely, where they will NEVER go)

Amen!!!

Yeah, seconded. I love Superfluous but man, I'm scared to death of him.

 

[ButteMT61]

I'll only try to add a tidbit to the data that Superfluous has posted here. This is from the cat - AKA - "DrifterProductions" on eBay.
This is from a public eBay listing, so no private info here. Needless to say, this thread and the associated trial documentary by Sloan have provided much enlightenment and dare I say, entertainment.

Little did I know in November of 2011, my first custom jacket being picked up at Aero, Scotland was created smack dab in the middle of this drama.
When I arrived at the factory, I was greeted with my jacket at the door by Will's son. Will and Amanda I was told were too busy to take the time to say hi. I was hugely disappointed as I was talking with Amanda for like a year prior, and wanted to meet as many folks there as I could.

Will's son was a genuinely nice kid, and took us around the factory - even into the basement where he showed me some newly acquired exotic hides such as reindeer that they had plans on using. The place was a mess as has been stated, but in a way I thought was fitting with the business and I was quite excited to get to see it all, first-hand. Will's son gave us some Aero pins and after a tour, we took off to head down to York and Durham cathedrals for the day...

I still have the jacket as it was a 50th birthday gift as well as a 20th wedding anniversary gift from my wife, as was the trip. The only letdown was that visit not being able to meet anyone sans the younger Lauder. Now I realize I was in the middle of WWIII during that visit and I've printed all of this to keep in the drawer for a rainy day long from now when I hand the jacket down to my son.


http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fortune-hun...345?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item19f9fbf889

The Fortune-Hunter is one of my old designs while working for another company over 20 years ago. Modeled after old Explorer jackets from the 30's and 40's it is a Lasting look that will never go out of style and is a True Heirloom jacket that can be handed down in the family.

RJL Ltd. Outfitters Proudly Presents this jacket made for us by Alexander Leathers of Scotland.
The finest hides sourced from throughout the world and then handcrafted into the best jackets you will ever buy for the money.. a true investment that can be handed down through the generations.... Always in Style.

Fortune-Hunter jacket and design (TM) Lanphier Designs c1996

Alexander Leathers of Scotland offers a lifetime Guarantee on Leather and Stitching under normal wear conditions and a One year Zipper Guarantee.


Customer testimonials:

"received jacket today. probably the first time i've directly contacted a seller re: how awesome an item is. man, this jacket is the nicest piece of casual wear i own. it's incredible. thanks for being reasonable on the price."

best,
louis (prefers to remain anonymous)

Actor Gerard Butler had this to say: " Bobby, I have a weakness for a nice leather jacket and have to say that this Cafe racer Jacket you sent me in that Horween Steerhide is the the best I have had. I find myself reaching for it every day. Look forward to getting more. "

I have worked with a number of Jacket manufacturers over the years. This new company is made up of former Employees of a well known company and is making an incredible Product. The customer service is impeccable. I am one of the US representatives for the company and mainly work with them as a private wardrobist. Needless to say, you are buying a one of a kind jacket.

This jacket was custom made for RJL Ltd Travel and Adventure outfitters, The jacket is New with Tags attached and of course shows the superior Craftsmanship that Alexander is known for, They have been making a name for themselves throughout Europe, Asia and America and are a force to be reckoned with in the Bespoke leatherwear arena. Some of the quickest Turn around times in the industry, This jacket is ready for you.....

Myself or my assistant would be happy to answer any questions about any of the items we have for sale. This jacket has a waiting list and will be custom made to your measurements. Please contact me direct with sizing questions and an exact ETA. lead time is about 2-3weeks. This is also available in other colors and other hides.
Our customer service number is 402-575-8445

Remember this is natural Horsehide, It will have imperfections and it will start to grain and crease with age. That is what makes it unique. Every jacket takes on its own life and will be unique to its owner.

The Horsehide used in this jacket is Tanned by Horween in the USA. Simply the best available.


Jacket is made by hand in Selkirk Scotland.

For over 25 years now I have worked in the industry, working with a private clientele. Outfitting those discerning ladies and gentlemen with the best money can buy, not the most expensive. Unique items that you can hand down to your children and they will proudly use. My Company RJL Limited will be offering many unique items in the months to come, all made by hand and in limited numbers.

So do not hesitate to ask any questions, But remember the clothing and bags we sell are not meant to sit around and look pretty. They are made to wear and wear hard. You want that bag that looks aged and well worn. That is exactly what our bags are meant to do. Who wants a leather jacket that looks new... You want it to show the miles, to have already molded to your body shape and with the scratches and scuffs to show for it.

So we may not be for those dainty gentlemen that dont like to wrinkle their trousers..... Imagination, dreams and the desire to get out and see this world. That is what we are about. Live life.....

Shipping is Free!

Please email me with any questions.

 

[pawineguy]

^ Thanks Butte, and yes, they still have much more cleaning up to do... Who IS behind RJL Ltd?

 

[ButteMT61]

^ Thanks Butte, and yes, they still have much more cleaning up to do... Who IS behind RJL Ltd?

Relentlessly
Jilted
Lauder
?

 

[Fanch]

^ Thanks Butte, and yes, they still have much more cleaning up to do... Who IS behind RJL Ltd?

Ask Superfluous. If he doesn't know, he'll find the answer in 10-15 minutes.

 

[wanz]

"We've always been at war with Eastasia."

I can understand the purge of information. I'm just surprised they did such a bad job of it initially.

It seems like they are getting bad crisis management advice. I gave AL and WL the benefit of the doubt (based on my interactions with Amanda)... Up until the arrest. With that and the content of the trial, I can raise my hand and say that I feel that I was wrong.

I understand that AL has much more at risk legally, but it seems like they could have taken a similar position which would have generated more empathy. I'm not one that necessarily wants to see AL go out of business, but their aggressive stance is off-putting. I guess they deserve a (very) small amount of credit for not throwing their man under the bus.

Is that a sentence that is in play?

 

[Superfluous]

Who IS behind RJL Ltd?

Ask Superfluous. If he doesn't know, he'll find the answer in 10-15 minutes.

Ask and you shall receive. RJL Ltd / Drifter Productions is owned by Robert (Bobby) J. Lanphier.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbylanphier
https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robert-bob-lanphier/12/253/379
http://www.styleforum.net/forums/posts/by_user/id/165084
http://www.drifterproductions.net/Welcome.html
http://stores.ebay.com/drifterproductionsltd/

While we are on the subject of ownership:

Alexander Leather Company Limited (current name: Simmons Bilt Clothing Company Limited (“Simmons”)) is owned 80% by Earlsgate Property Investments LTD (“Earlsgate”) and 20% by Paul Kenny ( http://companycheck.co.uk/company/S...HING-COMPANY-LTD/group-structure#shareholders ). I do not know if there was a different ownership structure in the past. Earlsgate is owned 100% by Alexander Thomas Alexander (http://companycheck.co.uk/company/S...ESTMENTS-LIMITED/group-structure#shareholders ). Interestingly, in late January or early February 2015 – just a couple of months ago – Alexander Thomas Alexander became a Director of AL/Simmons. Given the WL issues, the timing is interesting. Not surprisingly, Paul Kenny is a Director, and the Secretary, of Earlsgate (http://companycheck.co.uk/company/S...-LIMITED/directors-secretaries#people-summary ). Alexander Thomas Alexander and Paul Kenny have other joint business interests, including South Stand Development Company Limited (http://companycheck.co.uk/company/S...-LIMITED/directors-secretaries#people-summary ).

 

[AdeeC]

^ This

Alexander Thomas Alexander and Paul Kenny: We know you're watching this thread. How about revising your prior "statement" and while you're at it, answering a few simple questions:

1. Was Alexander Leathers formed after a chance meeting between Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder?

2. Did Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder share a passion for all things vintage -- leather jackets in particular -- which led them to embark on a quest?

3. Was it Sandy Alexander's and Will Lauder's aim to recreate the timeless design classics of bygone eras with an updated modern fit and interpretation?

4. Did Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder bring together a team of artisan specialists in Selkirk, with over 242 years experience in the art of vintage leather jacket construction?

5. Is Alexander Leathers the creation of Sandy Alexander and Will Lauder?

6. Was Will Lauder ever AL's production manager?

7. Why did you remove and/or change the descriptions of AL's inception?

8. Last but definitely not least, what is your response to the findings regarding similarities between Aero and AL jackets?

Stop making threats and, instead, answer these simple questions.

Another question. Who is the dynamic designer at Alexander's who managed to put out an entire fabulous collection of jackets in what appears mere months that would take any other company decades to assemble? He or she deserves a lot of credit.