• English

• Alden of New England
  Shell Cordovan Monk Strap
  Euro 580

  Alden is, of course the premiere purveyor of cordovan shoes in the world, and this shoe is proof positive of their excellence; truly one of my personal favourites. Every piece of leather is a bit different from every other and, in any case, the leather used in this shoe is an especially handsome piece of Cordovan and beautifully coloured. (Color 8)

  Cordovan is traditionally an American preoccupation but now, lately, very much in vogue among European businessmen and professionals, who, after all, are the most likely to be able to afford these 600-plus Euro shoes. Duty and VAT make these mostly American-made shoes considerably more expensive in Europe than in America, actually about 35% higher. On the other hand, Monk Straps are very much in the English taste, an aristocrat’s shoe from the old school, but have penetrated the consciousness of Continentals and North Americans over the years. I myself am a great fan of the Monk and have a pair for myself in more or less every configuration, including calf skin, cordovan, and the not-to-be-neglected Suede Monk. Most Monks are plain fronted, affording an elegant, streamlined look suitable for all but the most formal dress, and, punctuated with a discreet buckle, they proclaim the independence of the wearer.

  This fine example of the shoe first sold at Nordstrom’s, San Francisco’s famous high-end, Market Street store.

  Size Details

  Alden’s generous 10.5-11D US....Continental 44-44.5D, for the medium width foot.

  Condition

  The tops too show no wear and only moderate creasing and a beautiful patina from repeated polishings., A lovely example of a great classic shoe. These are the actual standard Alden color 8. Sold wothout trees.

Out of stock