Bellagio Open-Face Leather Case For Palm Treo 650

Posted on January 10th, 2006

Leather cases are the most commonly purchased accessory for PDAs and Smartphones. But in a sea of choices it can be difficult to locate the perfect case for your mobile device. Especially given the wide range of prices and styles, which can be quite expensive. Some cases are priced upwards of $100. But for Treo 650 users, there is one excellent choice that won’t break the bank, and still looks like you paid much more. It’s the Bellagio open-face leather case from Fortte; a fantastic product made from high quality leather, and styled to match the Treo form factor…and it fits like a glove.

The package includes both the case and an attachable belt-clip accessory which allows the Treo to be worm from a belt, and yet still be quickly detached when needed. I found the included belt-clip to be one of the best working solutions I’ve seen. It works by sliding the case onto the clip via a metal knob located on back of the case. Once seated properly the clip locks the case firmly in place, but still allows free motion, rotating 360 degrees. However, the Treo itself still remains firmly locked down, so there is no danger of the case or the Treo falling from your belt.

To remove the case from the clip quickly, as you would to answer an incoming call, you simply push down on a small button located on top of the clip which then unlocks the case, allowing you to slide the case off of the belt-clip.

This solution works so simply it can easily be performed with one hand. I had no problem accessing the phone when needed. And if you prefer not using the Treo while in its case, you can easily slide it out and replace it as need by unsnapping the fastening strap.

One rather minor nitpick I had with the design is that the left-side buttons on the Treo do not line up exactly with the cutout slot on the case. Some overlapping occurs which makes it difficult to access the rocker button on the Treo. But this was a minor issue.

Overall the case is very high quality, made from genuine leather. Every seam is carefully stiched. A small metal frame is sewn into the front to give it reinforcement. The back is made from a solid slab that won’t bend or flex under pressure. This also gives the Treo added support and protection from banging around. And yet, despite its rigid structure, the Treo slips into and out of the case quite easily, requiring very little force.

My impression of this case was very positive. So much so that I gladly give it my editors choice award. For a mere $29, you absolutely cannot go wrong with this leather case. You can purchase one for yourself via Fortte’s online store.