The DaVinci notebook by Raymay is a refillable, Filofax-style looseleaf system binder designed to fit 3 x 5″ paper with minimal overhang, offering a slim, pocketable option in a world of bulkier organizers.
Design and construction
In Japan, these notebooks are referred to as system organizers, system binders, or mini 6-ring notebooks. One of the problems often encountered with pocket-sized binders is that their shape becomes too squared due to rings and cover overhang, especially when tabbed dividers are used. What stands out about the DaVinci binder is its slim size that holds 3 x 5″ paper with very little overhang.
The exterior dimensions are approximately 3 7/16 x 5 5/16 x 9/16″, and the binder is compared in size to a pocket Moleskine. The DaVinci binder is made of quality leather, with a pleasant leather smell and a texture that will soften and age nicely. It is beautifully made, featuring tidy stitching and neatly folded seams and corners. A leather reinforcement under the rings and a cloth lining contribute to its durable feel.
The notebook is packaged in a lightweight cardboard box with the DaVinci logo and the slogan “simple and functional.” The side of the box reads “DaVinci System Binder,” and the back bears a barcode sticker and the Raymay branding. Inside, a plastic cover protects the notebook rather than a traditional shrinkwrap, and a paper band provides Japanese information along with branding. Cards in the pockets also carry additional Japanese text.
Hardware and usability
The binder uses six rings with standard 3 x 5″ looseleaf compatibility. The rings are 8mm in diameter (about 5/16″), and the usual push-button mechanism opens and closes the rings smoothly. This configuration accepts regular 3 x 5″ looseleaf paper and allows for the addition of inserts with a compatible hole punch. However, pocket Filofax inserts will not fit due to the narrower footprint of this binder.
The notebook includes a pen loop on the back cover, which the author found to be a negative feature since it can cause the notebook to close unevenly. The writer opted to remove the loop, citing personal preference and the difficulty of entirely unstitching and resewing the edge to remove it. The remaining remnants are not perfect, but this solution is preferable to the loop for the author’s use case.
Other included accessories are a plastic ruler/bookmark and a set of inserts with layouts such as an undated monthly calendar, checklists, and plain lined pages. The back cover provides a full-length pocket, and the front cover includes a pocket with a card slot for business cards.
Paper and writing experience
The DaVinci notebook uses a creamy, smooth paper reminiscent of Nolty notebooks. Despite expectations, the paper is not fountain-pen friendly as strongly as some other Japanese notebooks, though it is surprisingly more fountain-pen friendly than anticipated. The writer notes that vintage 3×5″ looseleaf paper fits the notebook well and looks great with its unlined pages and red edges. The paper is not acid-free, but it holds up reasonably well for various writing tasks.
While the author originally considered using the notebook as a sketch binder with a water-color palette, the intended application shifted toward long-term list making and planner use, with thoughts about alternative systems like Nolty diaries or Moleskine-style notebooks for daily planning.
Size, price, and availability
The Davinci notebook is compact and pocketable, a feature that sets it apart from many larger organizers. The author paid about $43 for the notebook several months ago, noting that July 2020 prices on Amazon could reach around $78, potentially higher due to COVID-19 supply issues. Availability on Amazon can be tricky, but searching for terms like “Reimeifujii organizer” can yield different sizes and colors. Some inserts and accessories are sold through JetPens or Kinokuniya bookstores.
Despite the price, the leather quality and the expected longevity justify the investment for some users. The author acknowledges having spent similar or greater amounts on Filofax models and even leather notebooks that aren’t refillable, underscoring the perceived value of the DaVinci binder when used as a long-term, refillable system. Other, more affordable Japanese-style looseleaf binders are available, and additional reviews are planned to compare options.
Practical uses and takeaways
Although the author’s initial inspiration came from using a binder as a combined sketchbook and palette holder, their eventual use case leaned toward long-term planning and list management. The DaVinci binder’s slim form factor makes it suitable for daily carry, while the six-ring design accommodates standard 3 x 5″ inserts and a variety of layouts. The leather finish adds sensory appeal and durability, making it a compelling option for those who want a compact, refillable notebook that ages well.
Overall, the DaVinci binder delivers a mix of elegance, portability, and practical functionality. It’s not the cheapest option, but for those seeking a high-quality, refillable looseleaf system with a smaller footprint, it stands out in the market of Filofax-style organizers.
