I recently acquired an Ideale model 5 saddle. Would anyone know what era and type (i.e. - racing ala Brooks Pro, touring/commuting ala Brooks B-17) of saddle this is? I kinda like it, but it's damn hard and will need some breaking in...

Never seen one with that low a number, there are some model 50's but I don't know or any single digit Ideales. Nevertheless, it looks like what it is, an oldy but a good 'un, with some care and if the leather hasn't perished. From the black enamelled frame, small rivets and integrated saddle bag hanger loops, it looks like the equivalent to a Brooks B17 Standard, and like an early '40s model, probably low in the Ideale line. BUT, that doesn't mean you should neglect it, heck, it might even turn out to be the holy grail for some Japanese collector...so clean it carefully and apply some Proofide, nothing else.

Reference to https://www.ebykr.com/?p=69 indicates that 'first reference noted' for this model was 1963.

Nice reference guide, THANKS for posting it!
Guess there were many single-digit Ideale numbers, now we know...

According to that excellent website, that saddle would be the approximate equivalent of a B17 Narrow at 162mm x 282mm. I think it was the model that was on many 60's Schwinn Varsities???

If there are any cracks near the rivets, go easy with any re-conditioning.

Ideale saddles very good!