ID'ing AE Seconds

[bizzblar]

Wondering if there is a sure-fire way to identify an AE "second." I swore I read a post here at some point that the factory puts a notch in the sole or something to demonstrate this? Scoured the forum but couldn't find it again. Asking because I'm interested in an ebay purchase and given the price would like to make sure that it is a first.

 

[cvac]

Usually, "firsts" come with the shoe bags, while "seconds" only get a shine cloth. That isn't a surefire way to identify, though b/c any seller could've just put the bags with a pair of "seconds".

 

[bizzblar]

So buying off ebay is just a crapshoot then? If they dont come with a box, is this another sign of it not being a first?

 

[Unit 91]

I have a pair that have either a 'W' or 'M' branded both in the sole and inside of each shoe. I'd imagine they are seconds. I don't know if that is standard for AE to do or not. Worth every penny I paid, though.

 

[FreedBird]

Seconds have a little burn mark on the sole of the right shoe just near the heel.

 

[JLibourel]

Originally Posted by FreedBird

Seconds have a little burn mark on the sole of the right shoe just near the heel.

Yes, it's in the shape of a little shoe. However, this mark only appears on leather soled shoes. I am not aware of any distinctive markings on A-E's many rubber-soled shoes.

A-E seconds are always sold by A-E with the box.

 

[cvac]

I'd be careful about buying from anyone that is selling them w/o a box. They should come with a box. I'd make sure the seller is trusthworthy (might want to search in the forum) and that they are willing to accept a return and do a refund if there is a problem.

 

[taxgenius]

Originally Posted by FreedBird

Seconds have a little burn mark on the sole of the right shoe just near the heel.

I have bought seconds from the shoebank that did not have that.

 

[taxgenius]

Originally Posted by cvac

Usually, "firsts" come with the shoe bags, while "seconds" only get a shine cloth. That isn't a surefire way to identify, though b/c any seller could've just put the bags with a pair of "seconds".


I have bought firsts from the shoebank that were discontinued that only came with the shine cloth.

 

[constant struggle]

Originally Posted by FreedBird

Seconds have a little burn mark on the sole of the right shoe just near the heel.


Can someone post a picture of this?

 

[forex]

Seconds usually do have a little mark on the sole,you can not miss it,it is very obvious.But you can also inspect the shoes and find minor defects, they are not material but are defects, nevertheless.
There can be a scratch somewhere or some problem with the heels.

 

[constant struggle]

if a slight scratch on my shoe means 50% off
i'll take it

 

[versusqc]

Originally Posted by Unit 91

I have a pair that have either a 'W' or 'M' branded both in the sole and inside of each shoe. I'd imagine they are seconds. I don't know if that is standard for AE to do or not. Worth every penny I paid, though.

I contacted AE about it, it just mean the product as been worn, like demo or returned shoes that have been inspected.
Anyway, here is the answer from AE

Dear Sir:



Thank you for your interest in our Allen-Edmonds Shoes. The "W" on the bottom of the shoes is a brand mark for worn product. If you have any other questions please call toll free 800.235.2348 and speak with one of our representatives.



Sincerely,

Tina Lemanski
Allen-Edmonds Shoe Corporation