G&G St James II vs C&J Westbourne Semi-Brogue Oxfords

[SartorialLife]

I'm debating between these two British Semi-Brogue Oxfords. The Crockett & Jones Westbourne sells for ~$550 locally and the Gaziano & Girling St James II sells for ~$1150 locally. I believe these are both goodyear-welted semi-brogue oxfords made in Northampton. What are the thoughts on these two? Is G&G quality worth double the price? I appreciate the design of the G&G sole with the fiddleback waist and I like the upper styling with the chiseled toe of the G&G, but not sure I want to spend the extra for it, so I'm looking for second opinions. Any other options I should consider?

Crockett & Jones Westbourne

Gaziano & Girling St James II

 

[Anachronist]

Hi SartorialLife,

The quality of G&G shoes is definitely more than a cut above C&J, both in terms of leather, build and craftsmanship. That said, there are people who would argue that is debatable if they are worth twice the price. From my humble experience, I think the G&Gs (like Edward Green) age beautifully and last longer. Ultimately, however, it’s a question of which fit your foot better. I would never compromise on this aspect and rather buy the cheaper shoe if in doubt.

 

[Sfroide3]

You can also have a look at CJ Handgrade line.

 

[Lapointe]

Both are great looking options. But If cost is not a problem, I would choose the G&G.

 

[ValidusLA]

G+G is definitely a "better" shoe by most objective metrics. Whether its worth double depends how much 550 hits your wallet (or how little).

I wills say between these two I actually think the C+J looks better. The toe on the G+G looks a little... flatish, but it could be the angle.

 

[Chowkin]

Have a look at Alfred Sargent’s Moore which closely resembles G&G’s St James II not only in terms of the shape of the last, the peaked counter but also the fiddleback waist. The major difference in terms of design is that it doesn’t have a seamless back.

AS has discontinued this line of shoes but it appears that there are still some shops selling them:

Alfred Sargent Moore (Cherry)

Alfred Sargent Moore is a sublime Adelaide punch cap oxford shoe, with a chisel toe available in cherry leather. Free delivery to UK mainland.

www.tredders.com

Here’s a review:

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