WORKING UNIT JAPAN | Advance Release of New Backpacks for Fall/Winter 2014

WORKING UNIT JAPAN

Arriving in Japan for Isetan Shinjuku's Men's Week!

New Backpacks from 'Seventy Eight Percent' Launch Early

Working Unit Japan, which imports and wholesales lifestyle goods, handles 'Seventy Eight Percent' (セブンティ・エイト・パーセント), a bag brand created by Israeli designer Shai Levy. The new backpack 'ESTEBAN' will be available for pre-sale starting Monday, May 12th, in the handbag section on the B1 floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building, coinciding with Isetan Shinjuku's Men's Week.

Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)

Designer Shai Levy to Visit on May 17th and 18th

Seventy Eight Percent bags are characterized by their durable construction, designed for long-term use, and the rich patina that develops over time, achieved through a combination of beautifully aging Italian leather and Okayama-Kurashiki cotton canvas.

The brand name 'Seventy Eight Percent' derives from a design philosophy that states, 'A product is only complete at 100 percent when its imperfections are filled through the aging process that begins with its first use.' You can enjoy how the highest quality natural materials take on the unique character of each owner.

The new 2014 Autumn/Winter backpack 'Esteban,' available for pre-sale at Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building, is the latest addition to the 'Back to Old School Collection,' offering a modern twist on old-fashioned European and American student bags. Designed to fit an urban lifestyle with bicycle commuting, it can be carried as a backpack or by hand.

On Saturday, May 17th, and Sunday, May 18th, designer Shai Levy will be present to discuss the brand's philosophy and offer styling advice. The Isetan Men's Week event will also feature popular items such as briefcases and laptop cases.

'Seventy Eight Percent New Arrivals Pre-Sale'
Period | Monday, May 12th – Tuesday, May 27th
Location | Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building B1F = Handbag Section
3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3352-1111 (General Inquiries)
http://www.isetan.co.jp/

Working Unit Japan
Tel. 03-6820-8435

SHAI LEVY
Founder and Creative Director of 'Seventy Eight Percent.' Born in Israel and based in Hong Kong. After studying product design in Jerusalem and Berlin, he received numerous design awards during his studies, including being named among the TOP 20 for the BraunPrize. Following a career in design consulting, he managed design and production at a product development center for high-end outdoor brands. He cultivated expertise and knowledge in all aspects of high-end technical outdoor bags while pursuing the fusion of fashion and functionality.
In 2007, he launched his own brand, 'Seventy Eight Percent,' merging his background in technical outdoor bags with urban fashion. He continues to create products that are not only exceptionally functional but also possess superior design, offering a vintage appeal that deepens with use.
www.seventyeightpercent.com