Bentley Motors is diving deep into its archives — and the craftsmanship that’s defined the brand for over a century — with the launch of its new “Heritage Leather.”
Originally created by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house custom division, for its Blower and Speed Six Continuation projects, this vintage-inspired leather is now available for the latest generation of Bentleys.
Heritage Leather is all about capturing the authentic feel and look of the 1920s and 1930s. Supplied by Scotland’s Bridge of Weir, the leather features a two-tone finish with a haircell grain that would feel right at home in a Cricklewood-era Bentley. Right now, it’s offered in two historically accurate colors: Ox Blood Red and Parsons Napier Green — shades meticulously sourced from original Bentley specs housed at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu.
To showcase the new option, Bentley had a little fun: they commissioned a fourth-generation Continental GT Mulliner, finished in Bedford Grey paint, to match one of their Factory Works Speed Six Continuation cars. Inside both, you’ll find the same Ox Blood Red Heritage Leather — proof that even nearly a century of automotive evolution can’t erase the appeal of classic materials.
Interestingly, the team didn’t just replicate the look. According to Bentley, during the development of the Blower Continuation Series, this leather was put through rigorous testing to ensure it could meet the same durability standards as today’s modern hides. So, while it looks vintage, it’s built to handle the daily demands of a contemporary driver.
For upholstery pros, there’s a lot to admire in the craftsmanship. The Speed Six Continuation stays true to its era with simple fluting and a blind-embossed “B” emblem on the door panels. Meanwhile, the Continental GT shows off a wider range of Mulliner’s talents — think intricate quilting, diamond perforations, contrast piping, and detailed embroidery.
Another interesting note: Bentley and Bridge of Weir went the extra mile to recreate the higher-sheen finish that vintage leather interiors often had. Back in the day, hides were treated with oils, waxes, or even varnish for that glossy look. Mulliner managed to bring back that subtle shine, along with slight shade variations to mimic the patina of well-loved vintage leather.
Of course, sustainability was a big focus too. Bridge of Weir claims the title for producing the world’s lowest carbon leather, thanks to a circular manufacturing process and full traceability. Bentley highlights that leather’s natural longevity — pointing out that many pre-war Bentleys are still running around with their original hides — makes it an environmentally sound choice when properly sourced and crafted.
As Bentley puts it, “A Bentley’s upholstery doesn’t wear out; it wears in.” And now, thanks to Heritage Leather, today’s owners can get a little piece of that timeless character too.
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