I use a lot of
THIS oiled leather for making camera bags and other outdoor gear. It's tough as nails, and folks really like it because it's so easy to "restore" to original finish. I use it for my shooting bags and accessories here in a wet climate, and just let it "antique" as it goes through hard use.
Read the description in that link, and see if it gives you some ideas for "antiquing" without trying to remove the oils. I can guarantee that it's going to get really antiqued with no special treatment if you just use it lots.
