One of the fatal flaws with the iPod nano isn't its scratchability, it's the lack of cases that were available at the launch of Apple diminutive music player. Apple is so secretive about new product announcements that they don't include third parties in on them. As a result, there's no cases or sleeves available at launch and people get their shiny gizmos scratched to hell. I still haven't received my "nano tubes" from Apple that I ordered at launch. Well, it looks like I can finally cancel that order.

Noreve is a high-quality case manufacturer from France that has released a nice leather case for the iPod nano that I totally dig. I reviewed one of their iPod cases back in April and liked it, and their nano case didn't let me down. Noreve's EUR 32.99 (~US$39.97) iPod nano case is an operate-in type case with a protective flap to cover the screen and clickwheel.

Their Leather case Apple iPod Nano Tradition [4107T5] is constructed of full-grain cowhide and is lined with velvet to minimize scratching to your precious nano. Simply slide the iPod nano in and you're done. You can access the hold switch, earphone jack and dock connector while in the case and I had no problem connecting my docking cable or PocketDock while in the Noreve case.

The protective flap covers the nano's display and clickwheel with a snap connector and must be flipped up to use the iPod's controls. The case is very high quality and adds little heft to the tiny nano form factor. It also comes with a removable belt clip, but I don't use it because there's simply no reason to clip the nano on my belt when it's so small. Even with the Noreve case on, I much prefer to keep it in my pocket than on my belt.

Ever since I lost my iPaq smartphone at a Kanye West show in Las Vegas (long story) I have been loathe to ever use a belt clip again.

The Noreve case for iPod nano comes in black, white, pink and baby blue and is available now.