intrigue || style || technique

I just received my EXOvault iPhone case today and feel like a boy who just got his first bike w/out the training wheels.  It came in a wooden frame as if it were a molded violin, showcased with rounded edges and a clear screen.   It’s an an exquisite effect.  I opted for an EXO10 Brass case with Pau Ferro back, engraved at the bottom.  So when I opened the package I saw this gorgeous brass and wood case with “danwade.com” engraved at the bottom.  ROCK!

I tend to lean towards tech/electronic products with an edge in design, so this was right up my alley. The case itself has an organic tech edge to it that is heavier than most cases, but feels substantial and smooth when you hold it. It feels good.  It adds the usual shell around the device as you would expect from a case, but you’ll immediately notice that your iPhone no longer looks like it’s inner self.  It metamorphosizes into something more, a bad-ass metal smartphone that all your friends will envy that’s both hardcore and elegant.

One of the features I really like about EXOvault and their designs is that you will not find an Apple logo anywhere on their products.  Don’t get me wrong, I love my iPhone 4S and its form factor, but this particular case changes the game.  The buttons are easily accessible on all angles and the screen isn’t obstructed in the least.  In fact it calls out the usability of what makes the iPhone so popular.  This case is PIMP.  And I say that in a way that I only know how.  I want to pimp it out to my clients, break it out during meetings, show off in front of my friends, etc.  Amelia Biewald and the EXOvault team have cracked the code in transforming the iPhone.  They wanted to improve the design, I say mission accomplished.

*Above picture from www.exovault.com

Some technical notes:

• The case is uber easy to put together.  It comes with an allen wrench and 6 screws (2 are extra).  There are many videos on youtube that will show you how to put it together if you need extra help.
• The iPhone sits in the case like a glove.  It doesn’t shake or rattle as they make it within 1/1000th of an inch.  From their site, “The inside is milled smooth to the touch and all closed back cases have a vinyl protective coating.”
• Dump the screen protector, it’s not needed.
• Reception wasn’t an issue at all and I did not notice any degredation in signal (worked fine on iPhone 4S, w/ATT).  For those of you in spotty neighborhoods, you might want to check out the Info section on their website.

Designed and made in Brooklyn, New York!  You can’t get a more localized artistic and industrial edge than that for a delicious American product.  Granted, it’ll cost you more than that Otterbox case, but you won’t look half as cool and well… it’s made in Brooklyn.  So there.

Nice work EXOvault!

For EXOvaults products, go to their website at:  www.exovault.com

yeah!