The argyle pattern is a classic hailing back to the Scottish highlanders. Kilts have had this pattern since the 17th century, and as a pattern it resurfaces regularly. Now Sena has picked up the diagonal chequered diamond pattern for their iPhone 4 Argyle pouch. It is available in two colors: black/white with orange embroidery, and brown/beige with white embroidery.
The Argyle is a slim pull strap pouch using a combination of leather and fabric. Getting the iPhone out is a matter of pulling the strap, that resets once the phone is out. The pouch is really snug, and even after weeks of using it you have to use both hands to get the phone out. When you pull the strap fully out you only get the top of the phone to grip. It takes some strength getting the phone out from the pulled out state. Inserting the phone is much easier, but still takes some pushing to fully insert it. This snugness might make it a bit hard to use, but on the other hand there is zero chance that the phone will ever fall out accidentally.
As always with Sena the design looks absolutely stunning. The pouch is a true attention grabber on any table or desk. Sadly this is also the first ever product from Sena where I question the quality of worksmanship, and even the design. Right out of the packaging I noticed some loose threads along the top of the pouch. This is something I have never seen before from any of the ten or so cases I have tried from Sena. Upon close inspection there are even threads that are sewn above the end of the two bound together leather pieces constituting the case.
Another issue with the execution of the pouch is the fact that the three times two holes found on the bottom front for the speakers are poorly done. Two out of the three holes are ok, and goes through the leather cleanly. The third(rightmost one) in each trio is poorly executed, and pierces the embroidery. This gives loose threads around the holes, and gives a sloppy look. Further more it means that not all of the sound gets out of the pouch that it was designed for. You can still hear the ringer, or music played but slightly more muffled than for example in the Sarach Ultrathin.
For protection the Argyle is great, but not awesome. The pouch covers the entire front, back and sides of the phone. The only part open to damage is the top of the phone. It could easily have fitted the entire phone inside given the pull strap mechanic. Still it protects it well from both impact and scratch injuries. As the case is rigid, and rather thick the iPhone will survive a fall. That is if doesn’t hit the open top.
When the phone is inserted you have full access to the headphone socket, and silent button. All other aspects are hidden inside, but you can still control the volume buttons. There is a risk that you accidentally control the volume in the wrong direction. Mute button, and charge socket require you to extract the phone. It can be inserted upside down if you want to charge it inside the pouch.
The Argyle is a beautiful pattern, and this is a case attracting a lot of attention. It is however not that practical, as it is hard to extract the phone due to snugness. Furthermore there are some loose threads when you scrutinize the pouch closely. If you are in the market for a great looking pouch that protects the phone well it is still recommended.
Final Rating
Argyle at Senacases.com $39.95
