Vaja creates some wicked leather cases, and I tried the iVolution Top for the iPad some months back. Now I got a go at the iVolution Top for the iPhone 4. Just like the iPad version this is one of those cases that breathes cool polished design.
The case is a two piece design with a large front screen flap. The back piece hugs the phone tightly, and protects the back and sides. The area around the camera is open, as is the left side from the volume buttons and up. 
The front piece is fastened on the lower back with a metal piece. It extends all the way to the top of the phone. At top centre of the front there is a rigid piece of leather extending that fastens on top of the phone. The fit is tight keeping the case closed until you open it. The Vaja logo is set as a metal piece on the lower front.
For protection the case offers a mixed bag. The screen is well protected when the case is closed. On the other hand the back top corner around the camera is left unprotected even when closed. When open case is open the protection is quite limited. The top half of the phone is most open to damage. I actually dropped the iPhone the first time I tried the case, and a small piece of plastic flew from the top right corner of the phone. For protection the iVolution Top might not be the best choice.
The great thing about the case is definitely the design with some great lines. 
It feels luxurious to the touch, and looks a million bucks. Easy to open, and close it also feels like a million dollars. No seams, no imperfections and made by hand it certainly enhances the flair of the user.
This is the first case I have tried with a bottom mounted flap. It is not as practical as a top mounted flap, as for example you have to have the case open to charge/sync the iPhone. What I found instead is that it is much more enjoyable to take calls with a flap at the bottom. It feels like an extension of the phone.
As with all products from Vaja the level of craftsmanship is through the roof, and combined with a modern design it marks a strong statement. For protection it lacks some cover, but most Vaja customers probably use their iPhones in a rather safe environment. If you are looking to add some luxurious flair to your iPhone 4 definitely consider the iVolution Top.
Final Rating
