I bought a pair of Carmina Chelseas about 3 months ago from The Armoury, so I feel that I should be allowed to chime in on this conversation (pics can be seen in the Shoe Porn Threak). For the sake of comparison, I have owned a pair of EGs, and currently have C&J's, G&G's, Alden's, Allen Edmonds, and others in my rotation, so I feel that I am pretty well suited to discuss the quality.
By no means are Carmina's better quality than my G&G's. The finishing is inferior, the lasts are not as elegant, the welt stitching is not as neat, etc. However, as far as I am concerned, I think that my Carmina's are far and away the best shoes I own in regards to their price / quality ratio. For ~$550, they blow the C&J's I have out of the water. The last is incredibly comfortable while still being very elegant. The channelled soles are a nice touch. The suede is out of this world--very 'buttery. The welt stitching was very neat and 'tight.' I would by no means describe them as 'flimsy.' They also look as good as new after about a dozen or so wears. So count this as someone who is thoroughly pleased with his purchase. I have no qualms, and will be ordering many more in the future.
By no means are Carmina's better quality than my G&G's. The finishing is inferior, the lasts are not as elegant, the welt stitching is not as neat, etc. However, as far as I am concerned, I think that my Carmina's are far and away the best shoes I own in regards to their price / quality ratio. For ~$550, they blow the C&J's I have out of the water. The last is incredibly comfortable while still being very elegant. The channelled soles are a nice touch. The suede is out of this world--very 'buttery. The welt stitching was very neat and 'tight.' I would by no means describe them as 'flimsy.' They also look as good as new after about a dozen or so wears. So count this as someone who is thoroughly pleased with his purchase. I have no qualms, and will be ordering many more in the future.
