• English

• Florsheim Imperial
  Special Order – Circa 1980
  Genuine Sharkskin
  Wing-Tip Tassel Loafer
  Euro 750

  The wing-tip is infrequently encountered in a Sharkskin Tassel Loafer, a handsome addition to an already most impressive shoe. Judging from the workmanship and treatment of the lining, this shoe most likely dates from the 1970’s. These shoes are beautifully hand-lasted, Goodyear welted, brogued and finely zig-zag pinked. The skins are soft and pliable as new; Sharkskin is extremely durable as evidenced here. This pair is in superb condition. The colour of these shoes is a deep, dense Black with the characteristic subtle natural shimmer of Sharkskin; a beautiful and eye catching effect. This material, among the rarest from which shoes can be made, far more rare than any Alligator shoe, possesses a quiet elegance that signal extremes of luxury without the slightest ostentation.

  The use of Sharkskin in the making of shoes, now no longer done for reasons of conservation, is a largely American phenomenon. One does see quite some variation from one pair to the next in the selection of skins; these being a rather longer grain than used in the usual examples. The effect is rather sleeker and very elegant. A glamourous shoe, extravagantly elegant in the handwork, finishing and materials and still absolutely understated and without a hint of ostentation.

  I cannot sufficiently emphasize the rarity of such a shoe. It is far more rare than any Alligator shoe, or, indeed, any other exotic skinned shoe. These are nothing less than works of art, museum-pieces, destined for the passionate and knowledgeable collector. An indestructible and, not surprisingly, rather waterproof shoe. Only available today from a custom shoemaker, thus the replacement cost must be seen to be in the thousands.

  Size Details

  European 41D......8D.....7E UK, for the medium width Foot.

  Condition

  Fine. Recently restored with new soles and heels and hardly worn since.

Out of stock