There is definitely some significant pigment loss, far more than i would expect from an 18 month old units. Now, two other questions. 1) Did you buy a 'protection package' from your selling dealer where they applied something to the surface? 2) If not, have you coated the leather with any kind of leather product? if so, that might be your problem. if you have not used (or the dealer used) and chemicals or treatment product on it, then I would say that there is an issue that need further investigating. If I were your selling dealer, I'd be pressing B-Y to evaluate the piece and if consistent with the photos either re-leather or re-place it entirely.