Crockett & Jones
“Hand Grade”
Classic Chelsea Boot
Euro 540

The Chelsea Boot is derivative of the Jodhpur boot and, like the Jodhpur, began as a riding boot. Distinguished from the Jodhpur by its elastic gusset and close fitting ankle-high shaft, the Chelsea Boot is both handsome and practical on or off horseback.

It is reported that Sparkes-Hall, bootmaker to Queen Victoria, invented the elastic gusseted boot in 1837, upon Charles Goodyear’s development of the vulcanized rubber, although this date conflicts with the later date of the introduction of the Jodhpur Boot into England. What can be said with certainty is that by mid-century the gusseted boot was widely adopted by both men and women and became a standard shoe in the shoemakers repertoire. Chelsea Boots enjoyed a resurgence of popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming the iconic footwear of the “mod” scene. Today, along with Jodhpurs and Chukka Boots, Chelsea Boots are once again prominent in well-dressed circles, a testimony to the immutability of the classical and traditional.
Crockett & Jones’ version of this boot, from their most expensive top line, the “Hand Grade” line, is on a par with any and every shoe or boot made by Edward Green, John Lobb, or any other fine English shoemaker. The “Hand Grade” line is Crockett’s pride made tangible, evidence that when cost is no object, they are capable of producing an uncompromisingly fine product. The Goodyear welt is channeled and skived (closed over with the sole’s own leather). The boot is from Full-Grain Calfskin of the highest grade; it is fully lined and fitted with an oak-tanned sole and dove-tailed combination “McAfee” heel. This is a most handsome and durable boot, and respects the simple, sleek and elegant lines of the classic Chelsea Boot. The plain toe shows as beautifully under dress trousers as under jeans. The substantial sole and the ankle support of the high top give a sense of stability, standing or walking, that few other shoes provide.

Different camera exposures provided to show more detail. In original carton and original Travel Bags.

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New with unworn with original Crockett & Jones Flannel Travel Bags.