Griffin Technology, one of the world’s foremost creators of innovations for everyday life, and Otis James, Nashville-based tie and hat maker, have partnered together to create a line of handmade protective sleeves for iPhone 4, 4S and 5 which will be sold exclusively in Griffin’s London store and on Griffin’s website.

In 2009, Otis James moved to Nashville, Tennessee, intent upon learning the craft of making clothing. While working at a local tuxedo shop his co-worker asked him to make neckties for her father and brother for Father’s Day. He had never made a tie before but gladly took the commission. It became evident that Otis had a gift for tie making and within a few months, he was receiving commissions to make custom neckties for weddings. In 2010, Otis launched his online store selling handcrafted neckties, bow ties and caps. Today, Otis’ handmade goods are also sold in boutiques around the country and he’s garnered international recognition for his designs and craftsmanship.

Otis’ motto is simple: make a quality product, with great attention to detail. He takes great care to make sure that nothing in his studio is automated. Every detail is hand-finished, even down to the stamps on the labels.

Griffin Technology connected with Otis while planning a limited edition line of premium, handmade iPhone cases this year. “Otis James’ designs are impeccable. His unique craftsmanship and attention to detail add a signature flair to everyday accessories,” said Keavy Murphree, Trend Product Line Manager at Griffin Technology. “When Griffin set out to produce handmade cases, we immediately knew Otis James would be a great fit for our brand, and being based in Nashville just sweetened the deal.”

“An iPhone sleeve was never something I thought about making, but it turned out being fun to explore new construction methods, taking the ideals of what I already make and transforming them into a new product,” Otis says. “I’ve been hesitant to work with big companies because of the level of disconnect, but collaborating with Griffin was a really personal experience, very hands on from start to finish. I was surprised by how personal the relationship became.”

Order Griffin + Otis James cases beginning today for $75 on www.griffintechnology.com/otis-james and check out the video for more information about the collaboration.