The Gokukawa Leather Keyboard, Rich but Meaningless

Leather has been associated with luxury for many tens of years, whether we're thinking about furniture or the automotive industry; but lately, it has entered the world of gadgets as well, and it looks like people (or at least designers) really dig it. And the leather-covered computer keyboard from Japan comes in the spotlight to prove that leather can actually go places most of us never thought it could.

So, we're talking about a small yet full-sized keyboard for your computer, with its every inch covered in smooth Gokukawa leather, which makes it look weird (and this is a widely spread opinion).

Each of the keys has been carefully wrapped in black leather, granting a smooth feeling as you type. Now, a small problem rises: there are no labels on the keys, but some lettering and numbering embossed in leather, which means that you should have serious QWERTY skills if you’re planning to work with this luxurious keyboard. The markings aren't painted and this could be a major problem in less-than-perfect lighting conditions. And that's with the upgraded version of the Gokukawa Leather Keyboard; because the basic model has absolutely no markings and could make typing, not to mention productivity and the likes, a really adventurous experience.

Now, it's true that this Gokukawa Leather Keyboard looks out of the ordinary and isn't a gadget you meet everyday. Yet, if you like the feel of leather at your fingertips and plan to lay some cash on it, be prepared for an out-of-the-ordinary price as well, as the basic model of the Gokukawa Leather Keyboard will set you back some $548 (¥49,800). Want some letters with that leather keyboard? OK, you got them but you'll have to fork out around $603 (¥54,800).

And, of course, beauty is still in the eye of the beholder; yet surely you could find better ways to spend $600.

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