Hartmann 7R Aluminum versus Rimowa Topas
 

By way of background I have been a loyal Hartmann luggage user for decades (with various tweed soft sides and duffels, etc. in my collection)

I need to add a larger checked luggage piece for two plus week international trips ...

After scouring the forums here, I have seen quite a bit of good things on Rimowa, which I have seen in person a few years back, but never really researched deeply...

Of course being a Hartmann guy, I went to see if they had anything comparable, and came across the 7R series (virgin Aluminum, not the metallized "Curv" material). Looks nice, with spinners, the traditional attention to details with leather in some nice places, et...

Since I can't easily see either in person, I wanted some feedback on fit, finish, quality, longevity, etc. etc.

Any thoughts or feedback is much appreciated!!!!

Patrick

I would like to know the answer to this as well. Huge Hatmann loyalist from the old days. Need a new roll-a-board. Was thinking that the hard-sided (esp aluminum) craze was worth consideration. I like the "idea" of sticking with Hartmann (all the rest of the family luggage matches, you know). But is it any good?

I know this is now from years ago, but I'm curious what you did. Did you get the Rimowa? Are you happy?

Yes, I got the Rimowa Salsa Deluxe 26" Multiwheel Electronic Tag in Red (great color for unique visibility and because I travel to China a lot ;-)) and I love it. Pack's really well and travels effortlessly. I've taken it on three international trips so far (a total of 10 weeks of travel) and have not had any issues with damage or other when checking.

Currently I am looking for a smaller international carry-on and debating between the 32L Topas and the new Aleon 19" aluminum. Decisions ...

Rimowa