Freeman
Circa 1970
Vintage 5-Eyelet Shell Cordovan Full Wing-Tip Brogue
“Budapester”
Euro 280

This is an exceptional, original, early bench-made example of this type, and in fine condition. This is what we think of when we say we prize old cordovan and the patina it can only achieve over time. The dept of colour not unlike old mahogany furniture that has been polished for a century send new cordovan to school. All in all, no better made nor more attractive example of this type is to be found.

Out of the over 200 American Shoemakers clustered around New England at the start of the 20 Century, only a handful remain, among them Bostonian, Cole-Haan, J &M and the better know Alden and Allen-Edmonds. Freeman, along with Florsheim and Bostonian exist today as marketing firms, the bulk of their wares being produced off-shore. Lamentable. All but a few are far reduced from the excellent hand-finished shoes for which they were once know and of which the present shoe is a prime example.

Si vous êtes intéressé par les plus grandes références dans le domaine de la chaussure de luxe pour homme de fabrication artisanale, par les noms des ateliers les plus traditionnels, Grenson, Edward Green, Crockett & Jones, Alden, John Lobb, Church’s English Shoes, Allen Edmonds, et, en particulier, les exceptionnels – mais en France trop peu connu – bottiers américains FLORSHEIM, FOOTJOY et HANOVER, n’hésitez pas à me consulte. Etant donné que mes textes figurant sont pour la plupart rédigés en anglais ou en allemand, je répondrais volontiers de manière plus détaillée à vos questions en français, en vous demandant de montrer de l’indulgence pour mon français approximatif.

Size Details:

Shoe Condition:

Original sole and replacement "Cat's Paw" rubber heel in good condition.