Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 2,182
Likes: 1,055
From: Columbus, OH
Bikes: Pake C'Mute Touring/Commuter Build, 1989 Kona Cinder Cone, 1995 Trek 5200, 1973 Raleigh Super Course FG, 1969 Raleigh Superbe, 1986 Miyata Nine : 1960/61 Montgomery Ward Hawthorne "thrift" 3 speed, by Hercules (sold), 1966 Schwinn Deluxe Racer (sold)
My experience with the B17 is that a generous initial application of Obenauf's leather preservative, top and bottom (after using all the proofide on there) softens a Brooks saddle nicely.
That said, don't count out your old saddle unless you're noticing more troubling symptoms of poor fit. I get the bruised feeling on a B17 after longer rides too.