Otsuka vs. ???... choices choices..

I'm faced with a bit of a dilemma here and any input would be greatly appreciated. Having recently taken an interest in Japanese artisans and as I am on my way to tokyo again shortly, I was tempted to take up a pair of Otsuka captoes or a pair of Otsuka wholecuts. I am also keen on getting a pair of these Santoni's 7226 in Hong Kong on the way.

With the limited feedback on the forums thus far on Japanese artisans in general, should I be better off buying a pair of C&J Weymouth handgrades purely based on the quality to price? or should I pay up a little more to get the Santonis? Or ditch all 3 and go with something else?

The Otsuka's about 550, the Santoni's about 700? i think, C&J's being around US$400? i think.. from plal,. I believe the Otsuka ones are Goodyear.

I know i'm not really comparing apples with apples, and I apologize if my choice of comparisons seem blasphemous to some, but i am struggling to make a decision... any thoughts or alternative suggestions??

Santoni 7226:

Otsuka M5-200:


Otsuka M5-201:


C&J:

Just from a styling point of view, the Santoni seems a bit more stylized/fashionable than either the Otsuka or the CJ, both of which are quite beautiful. In the end, for my money, I'd choose the CJ over the Otsuka, unless you can afford to make the jump up to Koji Suzuki -- now there you're gettin' a whole different league of shoe.

New stock Santoni's in HK would cost you around $685. There are other models to choose over there, and also in Japan. Keep an open mind and look around first. Hell, you might even find a JL or even a Berluti you'll like in HK! Happy travelling!

Originally Posted by acidicboy

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New stock Santoni's in HK would cost you around $685. There are other models to choose over there, and also in Japan. Keep an open mind and look around first. Hell, you might even find a JL or even a Berluti you'll like in HK! Happy travelling!

Santonis at Seibu is currently at 30% off with a HSBC credit card, or cash if you can make friend with the sales. I believe Santonis will also go on sale during the Lanecrawford sale at around 30%. I have my eyes set on a pair of olive plain-toe oxfords

Originally Posted by maomao1980

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Santonis at Seibu is currently at 30% off with a HSBC credit card, or cash if you can make friend with the sales. I believe Santonis will also go on sale during the Lanecrawford sale at around 30%. I have my eyes set on a pair of olive plain-toe oxfords

Crap! I was supposed to go to HK yesterday but begged off. When is the Lane Crawford sale commencing, Mao?

I vote for the Santoni's. Those are some damn nice ass shoes, and up my alley style wise. I have the Weymouths and I think they're lovely, but the leather is still quite stiff. I have a couple of Italian shoes, and the leather seems more supple.

Originally Posted by acidicboy

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Crap! I was supposed to go to HK yesterday but begged off. When is the Lane Crawford sale commencing, Mao?

I think it usually starts around two or one week before Christmas with 30% off. Or it may start a bit late depending on the weather/market. If you are in town, also try a boutique called "Swank". They have Santonis alone with Borreli and Kiton clothing, a good place to spend some time in (beware of all the crap avantgarde stuff you'll find in HK though!)

Don't buy orange sock Santoni FAM. They feel like paper shoes after you try on C&J Handgrade. While in Tokyo, check out Carmina in Rain last. Carmina has the best wholecut last I have ever tried, better than 337 IMO.

Remember, forget Santoni orange sock FAM. For $800, you could have a pair of C&J handgrade and Carmina.