CaseMate's new Signature Series case for the second-generation iPod nano continues the company's trend of crafting quality iPod nano cases from fine leather.

Case-Mate Signature Series for 2G iPod nano

The case mirrors the design of Case-Mate's case for the 5G iPod (5 stars) and original nano with its clean design and hidden stitch work. The Italian Pebblestone leather looks elegant and feels fantastic in the hand. Some might feel the case makes the iPod nano a little bulbous by doubling its depth, but even with the case the nano feels extremely svelte.

Where Case-Mate continues to lead the pack is with the extras it includes with each of its cases. With the new iPod nano case, a quality belt-clip is bundled that uses a removable stud on the back of the case. Should you not want belt clip functionality, you can just unscrew the stud, leaving you with a case that's only as thick as it needs to be.

In addition, Case-Mate includes two clear pieces of plastic for protecting the screen and click-wheel that are perfectly sized and stick without adhesive. While that may seem like a given considering the large cut-out on the front of the case, plenty of cases leave both parts exposed. We also prefer the plastic film to an integrated plastic cover since it ensures the iPod nano's most sensitive part is safe even when removed from the case.

What is decidedly not cool, however, is the small Case-Mate graphic printed on the bottom right corner of the film. While readability of the display is not really diminished, the unnecessary logo becomes an annoyance as it overlaps the screen. Fortunately, a drop of isopropyl alcohol and sufficient rubbing with a Q-tip took it off.

The Bottom Line

At $25, the Signature Series case is priced fairly for the solid protection and quality craftsmanship it offers. Like the company's 5G iPod case, if a simple leather case is what you're looking for, Case-Mate has your perfect ticket.

Case-Mate's Signature Series line is available in black, white, and red. For $5 more you can purchase Case-Mate's Luxe Line, a white Signature Series case with your choice of colored Swarovski crystals.