I checked out both the Filson and the Rimowa at local stores, and both are awesome, but for very different reasons (making it quite difficult to choose!).

The Filson was in brown and apparently an older version, made from real cotton canvas. They had one of the newer ones in as well, and that is made from a more shiny fabric, probably nylon. The nylon is lighter, and it doesn't look bad, but it doesn't have the same appeal as the cotton canvas, which will probably become increasingly splendid with time. The canvas version is definitely heavy, and heavier than my previous luggage. That's otherwise a minor point, unless it means I'm hitting the weight limits. Now, that bag looks and feels absolutely bombproof. I can't imagine even baggage handling being able to break anything on it. Everything is industrial strength, from the proper heavy duty brass zips to the bridle leather. Even the wheels were incredibly sturdy. I don't think I could break that bag even if I forcefully tried. The sides and back are fairly stiff, but you would need to be aware of protecting contents from hits to the front. I wonder how well it would take heavy, prolonged rain? There are good storage possibilities inside.

I think the weight figure I have is for the newer nylon one. I wonder if anyone knows how much the old canvas versions weigh?

The Rimowa looks and stands splendid and despite having old style latches, they seemed fairly sturdy. It rolled really well, although it may take a while to get used to spinners. It is clearly bigger than the Filson, which is good of course for those odd longer trips, and it was not too big either to be awkward, although I wonder how well it will manage being 3/4 empty —.will it crush? Where the Rimowa shines is in weight. Despite being bigger, it is much lighter than the Filson. Incredibly light. On the flipside it also seems flimsier, and I was a bit surprised at how much the case lid would move side to side when open. Also it seems there is no frame to support the edges, which is possibly why they get dented so easily? Unlike the Filson, I'm pretty sure I could break a Filson if I tried to bend it or put my foot into it... Now the Rimowa is over €100 cheaper, and it's pretty wonderful to hear stories about how there are Rimowa service centres around the world, and if they get banged up, people just bring them in for a quick nip and tuck, being ready before they have even time to pour themselves a cup.

So in short: with Filson I could go to war, and the Filson would probably make it out in better shape than I. It'a also easier to pack (not a clam shell). Howerver there is a small risk any electronics inside might have a rougher ride, and on some rarer occasions I may need a carryon. It's also heavy and a fair bit more expensive. The Rimowa would likely fit everything for any trip I do, rolls nicely at least when the ground is flat, and is clearly cheaper, but I feel it's more likely to break along the way.

Tough choice!