How Old Are These Allen Edmonds?

[bigbris1]

I know the pics arent great but nonetheless, can you tell me? Thanks!

 

[greekgeek]

I would guess late 1970's or early 1980's based on the copy in your pictures. But that is only a guess.

 

[bigbris1]

Wow. I wonder if I call them & give them the numbers inside, if they can tell the year produced?

 

[kenmoor123]

There is a similar thread in AAAC.
Which answers your question.
60s to 70s.

http://www.askandyaboutclothes.com/f...hlight=ostendo

 

[bigbris1]

Thanks. Actually that thread pointed to 3-digit style numbers. I would like to know that I just bought a 40 year-old pair of shoes, but I guess I'll give them a call tomorrow.

 

[lee_44106]

Wow, imagine that, a brand spanking pair of AMERICAN made shoes. Good stuff!

 

[Dewey]

I'll guess 20-25 years old. 1982-1987. AE strikes me as the kind of company that would use that font after it was already going out of style. Let us know what you learn.

I wonder how these shoes would wear if you put them into rotation. Are there any parts that will have lost suppleness -- stitching, for example -- and what about the leather? Is it good as new, though unpolished for 30 years?

 

[grimslade]

Wow. Those are definitely old. Note the spade sole. Let us know what you find out. I bet AE could give you an idea based on the codes inside.
EDIT: Are they shell?

 

[greekgeek]

Originally Posted by Dewey

I wonder how these shoes would wear if you put them into rotation. Are there any parts that will have lost suppleness -- stitching, for example -- and what about the leather? Is it good as new, though unpolished for 30 years?

FWIW I have seen some NOS vintage shoes wear just fine. They were very old Keith Highlanders and Florsheims. YMMV but if stored properly they should be OK and if not, well thankfully the rubber parts will go bad before the leather unless stored in a damp place

 

[greekgeek]

Originally Posted by Dewey

AE strikes me as the kind of company that would use that font after it was already going out of style.

 

[Teacher]

Email AE with the numbers, and they'll get back to you in record time (for online customer service, that is). That being said, I'd lay down a fiver that they're pre-70s. Note the canvas lining, which was used even on higher-end British and American shoes around WWII (and for some amount of time after) to conserve leather.

 

[Teacher]

Hmm...I was looking so hard at the shoes (nice shoes, by the way!) that I failed to notice the VERY 70s typescript on the card that came with them.

 

[bigbris1]

Will do. I just notices the SYMS tag on the sole. I wonder how long they have been in business

 

[rnoldh]

When did Allen Edmonds stop using the words "Ostendo Cushioned heel" labeling in the insole?

My guess is the 1970s.

 

[bigbris1]

I just called AE & Sarah said they were made in 1990 of black calf.

I also sent an email last night so if they answer that, I can compare notes.