Vintage 1960s Cartner London Melbourne Handmade Black Hide Handbag Gold Chain

Key Details:

Maker: Cartner – London / Melbourne

Model/Style No.: 542? – final digit indistinct

Era: Circa 1960s

Origin: Australia

Material: Hand Made From Washable Hide

Colour: Black

Hardware: Gold-tone, black and cream geometric fittings

Style: Structured shoulder / evening handbag

Strap: Gold-tone chain shoulder strap

Closure: Turn-lock front fastening

Interior: Black satin lining with zip pocket and compartments

Approx. Dimensions: 24 cm wide × 22 cm high

Markings: Cartner London–Melbourne / Hand Made From Washable Hide / 542?

Mini Story or Hook:

A fabulous survivor of Australian mid-century fashion, this striking Cartner London–Melbourne handbag combines classic black hide with some seriously stylish 1960s detailing.

The standout feature is the dramatic geometric fitting running vertically across the front flap, combining gold-tone metal with contrasting black and cream detailing. A substantial gold-tone chain completes the glamorous period look.

Inside, the original satin lining carries the Cartner London–Melbourne maker’s mark together with the wording “Hand Made From Washable Hide” and a style number beginning 542. The final digit is indistinct.

Cartner handbags appear to have been produced over several decades, with surviving London–Melbourne marked examples dating from at least the 1940s through to the 1960s and 1970s. This example’s modernist hardware and styling are particularly evocative of the 1960s.

A wonderful Australian vintage accessory that works equally well as a wearable statement piece or addition to a collection of mid-century fashion.

Condition:

Condition: Good vintage condition – see detailed notes below.

This is an original vintage handbag showing wear consistent with its age:

* Black hide exterior retains an attractive glossy finish and presents very well from the front.

* Light surface marks, scuffs and signs of previous use throughout.

* Wear and deterioration are visible along the lower rear edge, as clearly shown in the photographs.

* Some wear is present around the upper corners and chain attachment points.

* Distinctive original front fitting and turn-lock closure remain present.

* Gold-tone chain shows expected age-related wear and patination.

* Original black satin interior remains present with age-related wear and marks.

* Interior zippered pocket and compartments remain intact.

* Original Cartner London–Melbourne gold stamp remains visible.

* Marked “Hand Made From Washable Hide” with style/model number beginning 542; final digit is indistinct.

A particularly attractive vintage Cartner that displays beautifully despite its age-related wear.

📸 The photos form part of the description – please examine them closely.

Postage & Handling:

📦 All items are carefully wrapped and packaged to ensure they arrive safely at their new forever home.

Combined postage available – contact us before purchasing for a revised invoice.

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