What's the difference between an Albion SLK and an Albion Style saddle?

[ArabDiva]

I have an older Albion SLK (high head model, older without the super-formed knee block like they have now) for my mare, and I love it. However, it’s too wide for my younger, narrower gelding. So, I bought a saddle on eBay that was listed as a medium-width SLK. Well, it got here today and the flap says “Style”, not SLK.

Was it listed incorrectly? Is the Style the same thing as the SLK, or are they totally different models? The saddle looks pretty close in cut and construction/features to my SLK, although the seat seems like it may be slightly shallower. I guess until I can bring it to the barn and ride in it tomorrow, I don’t really know how it will work out.

Thanks!

[DPIAm]

Here are the models of Albion: http://www.albionsaddlemakers.co.uk/saddles/dressage-range.html

[ArabDiva]

[QUOTE=DPIAm;6688784]
Here are the models of Albion: http://www.albionsaddlemakers.co.uk/saddles/dressage-range.html[/QUOTE]

Yes, I looked up that page, but the Style wasn’t listed. I’m assuming Style is an older model that is not made any more, just like my SLK is a older model and the ones made today are built slightly different.

What I want to know is the relation between the Style and the SLK…is it a precursor? Something totally different?

[rothmpp]

I owned a SLK and a SLK Ultima, and a friend had a Style. They are not the same thing. If I remember correctly, a Style was not as severe as a SLK, not as deep, smaller knee rolls.

The moulded thigh blocks that you are describing are what I found on the Ultima, I believe the regular SLK does not have the moulded thigh blocks.

If you like the saddle, that is one thing, but if it were me I would not pay as much for a Style as a SLK, as an SLK is usually selling for a bit more on eBay.

Even if they tried to say it was a no returns listing, it is absolutely was NOT listed correctly, and as such should be eligible for a return.

Hope this helps

[KateWooten]

This happened to you too ? i bought an SLK Ultima on ebay and it turned to be a Style. Fortunately for me, the seller noticed the error before shipping the saddle, so I got a full refund. The Style is a significantly older model, and does not have as much value. As it happened, the one I bid on was readvertised correctly the following week and I bought it again, for a whole lot less.

If you have paid for an SLK, you need a big refund.

[ArabDiva]

[QUOTE=KateWooten;6688865]
This happened to you too ? i bought an SLK Ultima on ebay and it turned to be a Style. Fortunately for me, the seller noticed the error before shipping the saddle, so I got a full refund. The Style is a significantly older model, and does not have as much value. As it happened, the one I bid on was readvertised correctly the following week and I bought it again, for a whole lot less.

If you have paid for an SLK, you need a big refund.[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the input, rothmpp and katewooten.

I paid $900 for it. Is that a fair price for a Style?

I’m going to try it on my gelding tomorrow. I’m hoping it works for us because I really hate the idea of going through with an ebay claim and return shipping. not to mention that the box it came in was TRASHED so i would have to find a new box for return shipping.

[KateWooten]

No, a Style wouldn’t be more than $750. Shipping box for a saddle is easy - it’s the 18 x 18 x 24 moving box at walmart.

[mountainbells]

I have not 1, but 2 “Style” models and LOVE them. That is why I have 2. It may be older but definitely give it a try. The tree can also be adjusted up or down one size. Ann Forrester with Equestrian Imports deals with a lot of Albions and that is where I found my first one.

[quietann]

Yes, the Style is an older model and no longer made. It’s more open in the seat and the knee rolls are smaller (but still substantial.) I had one for several years and it sold through Pelham Saddlery earlier this year for just over $1000, about $100 less than I paid for it in 2009. It was fabulously comfortable but put me in a chair seat (all Albions do this to me, YMMV)… At the time I bought it, I didn’t care because all I wanted was a saddle that fit my horse and didn’t cause pain to my post-wreck body.

[ArabDiva]

[QUOTE=quietann;6689239]
I had one for several years and it sold through Pelham Saddlery earlier this year for just over $1000, about $100 less than I paid for it in 2009. [/QUOTE]

thanks for that info. Based on that, and on some googling I did, it seems these generally go for $900-1275. So I got an OK deal, but not a steal.

[EqTrainer]

If you want to sell it, let me know.

[EventingMare]

EqTrainer- I just found an Albion Ultima SLK and its selling for $1,500 in case you were in the market for one.
http://dressage.sporthorsemarket.com/listings/dressage/tack-and-equipment/saddles/albion-ultima-slk/3394/

[ArabDiva]

OK, an update on my situation.

Got to ride in the Style saddle tonight. When I first put it on my gelding, it looked like problem solved. Sat very nice and level, front-to-back and no pressure points. Good wither clearance. Felt great to ride in. Although the seat is 1/2" smaller than my SLK, it is also shallower so that makes up for it.

After 20 minutes of walking and trotting, it had crept forward a good 2" onto his shoulder and withers

I have my local Albion rep coming out on Thursday to check it out. If she says it’s a no-go, I’ll either be selling it or making an eBay claim.

[EqTrainer]

[QUOTE=EventingMare;6690526]
EqTrainer- I just found an Albion Ultima SLK and its selling for $1,500 in case you were in the market for one.
http://dressage.sporthorsemarket.com/listings/dressage/tack-and-equipment/saddles/albion-ultima-slk/3394/[/QUOTE]

Thanks but I have a client whose horse loves my Style. Sure she would like to buy it!

[ArabDiva]

[QUOTE=EqTrainer;6691028]
Thanks but I have a client whose horse loves my Style. Sure she would like to buy it![/QUOTE]

After I see the saddle fitter on Thursday, I’ll let you know if it will be up for sale

[Char0308]

Albion Style is old version of Albion SL (not SLK but the SL) this is a more open seat model than the SLK.