Common Questions & Answers
1. How many cards does the card case hold?
The Serpentine card cases were designed to function best with up to 6 cards of varying thickness. You can usually squeeze in a 7th card as well (if you need to add a hotel key card in there temporarily), but generally speaking the trigger functionality will work best with 6 cards. The 1900 case can hold up to 7 cards.
2. Will the card cases get scratched up easily? How well do they hold up to use over time?
Cellulose acetate is indeed a somewhat "soft" material and it can pick up it's fair share of dings and scratches over time. This is why we include a free hybrid-glass protection layer in the box which can be applied on top of the acetate cover to add a significant level of scratch resistance. Our metal frames are all finished with either nickel plating, anodizing, or PVD to ensure a high degree of corrosion and scratch resistance as well.
3. What material is the trigger made out of?
The triggers are made from acrylic. We choose this material because of its strength and favorable friction characteristics against the finished aluminum case. The rear side of the trigger is left "open" as this also helps reduce friction. As this is really the only moving part, we wanted it to be easily replaceable as well. Eventually we will offer triggers of various other materials and designs that can be switched out to customize your case further.
4. Is there a return policy or warranty?
Yes, you have up to 30 days from delivery to try out the card case before returning to us if it doesn't suit your needs or meet your expectations. There is also a 10-year warranty for any structural damage to the aluminum frames (just send us an email with a picture of the damage and we send out a replacement). This does not include any scratches or wear and tear to the finish.
5. Where are your products made?
Most of our company operations, manufacturing, and assembly primarily takes place in Sweden and Italy. However we have a few key suppliers in Germany (for springs/fabrics and our hybrid-glass layers) and in Hong Kong (for metal CNC work and finishing).
6. What are the differences between nickel plating, anodizing, and PVD finishes?
We use a variety of different metal finishes to achieve different looks and add a degree of protection to the raw aluminum frames used in our card cases. PVD finishes offer a slightly higher degree of protection with the added decorative silver/gold appearance. Anodized/nickel plated options may offer slightly less protection than PVD plating, but they have the benefit of being less prone to fingerprints given their more "matte" finish.
7. What is cellulose acetate?
Cellulose acetate is a natural polymer derived from renewable sources (wood fibers and cotton). It is nontoxic, nonirritant, and biodegradable. Combined with various dyes and additives, acetate can be pressed into a nearly infinite range of patterns and colors with a depth and richness which cannot be matched by synthetic plastics.
8. Will the trigger mechanism damage my cards?
Cards with flimsy lamination might develop some peeling at the edges over repeated use. However, this can easily be fixed by removing the extra bits of lamination with an exacto knife or blade. We've put some of the same cards through dozens of rough 3d printed prototypes and repeated testing and they've held up just fine!
9. Does the trigger make the card case awkward or uncomfortable in the pocket?
The card case is meant to be carried in a front pants or jacket pocket with the trigger facing up (so that it is ready to be pressed as soon as you pull it out). It should not cause any discomfort when in the pocket due to the rounded tip and the small footprint. The compact nature of the case with its beveled edges gives it a very subtle presence in your pocket.
10. Do you ship world-wide?
Yes, at the moment we will try to ship just about anywhere.
11. Can I also carry cash in the card case?
In a pinch, yes, if you fold up your cash in thirds you can use the case to carry some cash. Leave 1 or 2 cards at the bottom and put your folded cash on top. When you press the trigger your folded cash should come out with the cards.
12. Where are your products shipped from?
Everything is shipped directly from our studio in Stockholm, Sweden.
13. How can I get in touch with you if there are problems with my order or I have some other questions?
We frequently check our Instagram DMs (@siren.corp) but you are also welcome to email us at info@sireneurope.com for any other questions you might have.
14. Will cards fall out of the wallet when held upside down?
No, cards will not fall out the top even when given a bit of a shake. We use a 3mm thick strip of industrial felt alongside the inner wall of the case which holds the cards securely in the case.
15. Do you offer custom engraving services for logos or initials?
At the moment we do not offer this service for the simple reason that there are likely to be a few local options in your area for custom laser/engraving services that should be able to handle this request for you.
16. Can we become a Siren retailer?
Although we primarily are focused on online sales at the moment, we are considering a few retail partners. If you think your store might be a good fit feel free to send us an email to tell us more!