Let's start with the positives because this notebook does have some standout features. The sheer volume of pages (720!) is a dream for heavy writers like me. I've been using it as a daily journal and sketchbook, and after three months, I'm barely halfway through. The paper quality is excellent—100gsm thickness means my fountain pen ink doesn't bleed through, though gel pens can be risky (as noted by other reviewers).

The vintage leather cover feels luxurious at first touch—soft, slightly pebbled texture that develops a nice patina over time. I particularly love the dual ribbon bookmarks (one red, one black) which are perfect for marking my current journal entry and latest sketch simultaneously. The pre-printed weather icons and date boxes at the top of each page are surprisingly useful for quick daily logs.

Now for the disappointments: The binding issue is real. While mine hasn't completely failed like some reviewers', the spine started showing stress after just two weeks in my backpack. The 'gift box' arrived dented (as others reported), making it unsuitable for actual gifting unless you're okay with presentation that screams 'last-minute dollar store find.'

The included pen? Comically bad. It's so short it feels like writing with a golf pencil, and mine skipped right out of the box. I immediately swapped it for my favorite gel pen.

Best uses I've found: As a bullet journal (the thick paper handles washi tape well), travel diary (the cover wipes clean easily), or art sketchbook (great for light watercolor washes). Just don't expect heirloom quality—this is more 'pretty workhorse' than luxury item.