Musings and comments about our common interest
We have now launched a new product: a true leather case for the Pioneer series of HP calculators.
These cases are produced from dark brown Ubirque leather - same color as the original product, just much better. This is valid for all the Pioneer calculators: HP17bII, HP10b, HP14b, HP27s, HP22s, HP32s, HP42s. Excellent tactile feeling!
We have planned to sell a range of calculator cases for several models - all of them made from Ubrique cow leather. You have seen the tests of the HP12c - which was the easiest of all possible cases. You can see the test below. A question would be which other colors may be interesting. We have seen samples of Burgundy (nice) and Brown (very, very nice). If the original black model sells well, then the brown is next, and the burgundy will follow.
The next model will probably be the Pioneer case, also in leather. It is just slightly longer than the HP12c's, but the same profile - and it also can be used with the newer HP17bII+ (tested with the originals). The factory has already the original samples and could start production if we see that the Voyagers sell well. The original 12c vinyl case had a better texture than the Pioneer cases - although there has been an evolution to a very plasticky version over time - I am thinking about the cases I receive with the HP42s. Also these "plastic" cases break much more often - it is difficult to find a really "complete" unit. However, finding a replacement is quite easy, easier in fact than with the Voyagers: you just need to buy a second hand HP10b off Ebay, and you have it. (you can even drop the calculator later :-)).
Third in line is a case for the HP41. The original case is one of the ugliest I have seen. What were the HP guys thinking? The shape: I can understand that they thought that everybody would buy the card reader to have it included in the standard case. However, the color was ridiculous! Compare it with any other case built before, even for the humble Spices (hp31, 32, 33, 34, 37): much better!!
Here there are some questions to answer before ordering it, and I would like your input:
We are planning to introduce three leather cases for the most typical HP calculators. We will start with:
The key for both the Voyagenr and Pioneer cases is that they fit quite tight - and do not slip out immediately. Normal fabric is ruled out, while suede- or felt-type may work well. Also, in my opinion, the suede-like feeling of the inner part of a leather may work, too.
We will keep you updated. Meanwhile, let me show you 4 different types of HP41c covers,
And also a Voyager Burgundy leather case, and a similar case for the Clamshell type: