So What Kind of Alden Boots Did I Buy?

[BCD]

So I just won these Alden cap toe boots on Ebay:http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...m=170317210133 It is apparent from the manner in which these were listed and the responses to the questions, that the seller really doesn't know much about Alden cordovan boots.

Based on the interior markings (7H/6 044 4060M) it suggests these are a model number 4060, which I understand to be the model number for the run of the mill cap toe boots in No. 8 cordovan shown here: http://www.theshoemart.com/cgi-bin/c...Cordovan&type=
However, despite the poor photos, the seller was quite clear that the boots were chocolate brown in color.

The boots are also marked as being a "special riding boot made exclusively for Eduard Meier, Munich," which is very high-end shoe store. I also came across this very similar pair of boots: http://www.brownsfashion.com/product...lden/93851.htm, which is also clearly advertised as brown. Finally, I found an old discussion re. Alden Cigar Shell on AAAC, where someone claimed to have Alden cap toe boots in Cigar and posted this pic: http://i14.tinypic.com/2j0egdv.jpg

So did I just score a great deal on some sweet cap toe boots in Cigar Shell or just an average deal on a darker run of No. 8? Thanks.

 

[rick]

depending what cond i think you did great

 

[texas_jack]

That's alot of money for used boots with no picture of the sole.

 

[BCD]

Originally Posted by texas_jack

That's alot of money for used boots with no picture of the sole.

While no shots of the bottoms of the soles, profile shots suggest the boots - sole included - are in very good shape. Also, still able to read the inscription on the sole re. the "special order" status, so I know they're not completely worn to the bone.

I definitely have overpaid if they are wornout cap toes in No. 8. However, based on everything I've seen (including the seller's PM that these are definitely chocolate brown in color), there's a really strong chance these are cigar shell cordovan. If that's the case - even if the soles are worn, this was a great deal.

My real question is whether you guys think these are cigar or No. 8. I've read many posts and seen many boots and shoes marketed in cigar shell, but almost none are cap toes that look like these. The model number is also throwing me off. Figured the many shell gurus on this forum would be able to give me some insight. Thanks.

 

[BCD]

With all the Alden shell gurus on this forum, I can't believe that no one can help me identify these boots. Help a brotha' out, why don't you. Thanks.

 

[greekgeek]

Originally Posted by BCD

With all the Alden shell gurus on this forum, I can't believe that no one can help me identify these boots. Help a brotha' out, why don't you. Thanks.

You do not need to be an Alden shell guru to judge color, just need to have good pictures.

Let us know what color they are when they show up on your doorstep.

 

[BCD]

Originally Posted by greekgeek

You do not need to be an Alden shell guru to judge color, just need to have good pictures.

Let us know what color they are when they show up on your doorstep.

Gee, thanks. I had not thought of that. Glad to see the Senior Members lending a hand to the Newbies.

 

[unagiluva]

When he says "The bottom says....." I believe he is referring to the insole. Alden makes shoes specifically for certain shops and include this writing on the bottom of the inside of the shoe. All of my Aldens (that being 2 pairs) only say Alden and "Genuine Horween Cordovan Leather" or something to that effect.

Those look #8 to me. Cigar is much lighter in tone, and #8 can definitely get "chocolate brown-eque" with age. Almost certainly Cordovan based on the retail quoted & folding of the toe box.

 

[LeatherSOUL]

Neither your boots or the ones on that Brown's site look like cigar to me. Both seem like #8.

 

[rebel222]

Alden changes the model# for the different colors. If it is the Model# for #8 shell, then that is what you got. They may have obtained some patina overtime that makes them appear different than brand new #8 shell.

 

[Tarmac]

they are either black or #8. $270 is on the high side for a well-used shell boot, on the other hand they seem a bit rare, you assess your own value for rarity.

 

[BCD]

Ok guys,

The boots arrived today. I don't own any No. 8 shell and that which I've seen in stores has always had a strong burgundy color in it. These definitely look dark brown and are certainly not Cigar. Am I correct that No. 8 can come in this color / shade as well or is this some other type of shell?

Here are some photos of the boots next to my Alden Chukkas with Commando Sole in Cigar: http://www.flickr.com/photos/34517965@N08/?saved=1 Outer soles are in excellent shape and bottoms are stamped "Special Riding Boot Made Exclusively for Eduard Meier, Munich." Similar notation is made on the heel of the insole.

Really, really like the dark brown color and they are amazingly comfortable. The speed lace hooks are a nice touch too. Overall, I'm very pleased with the purchase and am glad I took the gamble by purchasing even with the poor photos and descriptions in the Ebay ad.

Thanks for the responses,
BCD

 

[texas_jack]

sometimes is pays to ebay.

 

[robin]

I've owned a pair of these. They're #8, which the 4060 model number corresponds to. The black shell version's model number is 4065.

 

[mxgreen]

What does it matter if they are #8 or cigar if you are still unsure after seeing them in person?