OTC has had the chance to test out a couple of bags from the London-based brand knomo .  Known for blending organic, contemporary designs with high quality materials and finishes, knomo bags are a great option for everyday use.

We’ve spent the past few weeks putting the Kobe messenger and Jackson briefcase through their paces and in both cases we have been really impressed.  As a work, commuting or general purpose bag, each combines great functionality, outstanding craftsmanship and clever design.

** In fact, we liked them so much that OTC is partnering with knomo to giveaway a brand new Kobe messenger bag.  All you have to do is like us on the OTC Facebook page and you are entered to win.  But hurry up because we’re going to pick a winner on Friday, October 28! **

Both the Jackson and Kobe are part of the Brompton Collection and are new for Fall 2011.  The great thing about these two bags is that they each blend naturally with an updated classic sense of style.

The Jackson briefcase is formal enough for regular business use but its clean and contemporary look keeps it from being too “briefcasy,” as one friend observed.  It feels great in your hand and, unlike many other “contemporary-classic” styled bags, the quality of its materials and construction is evident.

In the same way, the Kobe messenger bag, especially in the tan finish which we tested, is a great choice for a day bag that has a solid, elegantly casual presence.  Both bags retail for $295.00, a very fair price for what you get.

Jackson
The Jackson is named after the American city of Jackson, Mississippi.  The full grain leather briefcase has a angular profile but the leather is remarkably dense and soft.

The laptop section within the main body of the bag has quilted padding and can hold a 15-inch laptop.  Additional internal zip pockets and elastic pouches are covered by the leather flap, secured by two mock-buckles.

Under the front flap are two smaller external pockets.  One is open with card slots and pen holders while the other is a handy zipped pouch.  An external rear newspaper pocket has a hidden magnetic closure.  There is even a zip-through sleeve allowing the bag to be slipped onto your roller bag.

Kobe
The Kobe, named for the sixth largest city in Japan, blends the same soft, sturdy leather with coordinating rPET material – made from recycled bottles – and brushed nickel hardware.  While normally not too hot on hybrid material bags (they never seem to look quite right: is it for the gym or the office?), we are definitely a fan of this one.

The internal layout of the Kobe is nearly identical to the Jackson briefcase except for the scooped cutout of the bag’s front wall which allows for easier access while being worn.

It’s also slightly smaller than the Jackson while still fitting a 15-inch laptop in its quilted sleeve.  Hidden magnetic tabs fasten the front flap and the adjustable wide shoulder strap is very comfortable.  The Kobe also has a handy full-length external newspaper pocket with a zip-though roller bag sleeve.