Classic Saddlery (Formerly Rembrandt)
Vivian
Dressage Saddles
Manufacturer: Classic Saddlery (Formerly Rembrandt)
Model: Vivian
Category: Dressage Saddles
Purchase: I purchased the saddle directly from Classic Saddlery (available at www.classicsaddlery.com). After many hours of searching and studying saddle after saddle and being taken completely aback by prices that were as high as $4000, I found the Classic line. I purchased the adjustable tree because I cannot afford to buy another saddle next year. Especially because this was my second saddle in as many years, the last one being a fixed tree. The Classic Vivian cost $1895 plus $25 shipping.
Likes: I love that all it takes is a 'key' to adjust the width to the millimeter, and I don't have to fuss with it more than a minute. The seat is soft and comfortable and the thigh blocks are perfectly placed. It has all the feel of bareback but is 100 times more comfortable. My horse is very comfortable in it and his head bob at the canter disappeared the first ride. He is a new horse and the saddle fits us both like a glove. It has the wide gullet and the short tree points offered in the super expensive saddles, but it also offeres the mechanical tree, which was an added bonus for me. I had studied many saddles and am aware of the concern many have over the adjustable tree, but I am completely confident with this extensively tested and researched version. Everyone who sees it wants to try it!
Dislikes: The smell! On arrival something with the preserving or tannig process made for a very strong aroma. Hardly a reason not to keep it though, the smell has faded very quickly.
Quality: Soft, but high quality leather. It broke in almost immediately. It seems clear the manufacturer took every care in the construction of the saddle. I look forward to many years of use.
Summary: The staff at Classic Saddlery were incredible. Their trial policy is incomparable. The saddle arrived just before I was to go on vacation. They willingly let me hold the saddle until I was able to try it, which was nearly 3 weeks!!! They emailed promptly and were helpful on the telephone. Determining my size and build , my horse's attributes, our level of ability and direction of training where all part of helping us select the saddle to best suit our needs. The also offered a year of reflocking with the saddle purchase ( you pay shipping). I did not find another manufacturer so interested in the individual customer. I live in a rather far flung location, and I felt like they were just a few miles away. Customer service and exceptional quality of product. I am so relieved I found Classic Saddlery.
Rating: 5
Author: Elizabeth R.
Date: 2004-10-26
Usefulness Rating: 4.13333 out of 5.
75 reader(s) voted.
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