Shawnc
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- Jul 5, 2013
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Guys,
I’m thrift shopping in Japan and I found these Alden 99162 for USD 300. Apparently this is a 986 especially made for the Japan market, with a higher vamp. What do you think of the state of the leather and of the soles?
Are the soles due a replacing or should i just add brass to the tip? Do you think I paid a fair price? And any idea what color this is? Im assuming a very faded color 8
Thanks guys!! View attachment 2154273 View attachment 2154275 View attachment 2154277 View attachment 2154281 View attachment 2154283 View attachment 2154285 View attachment 2154353
Dude, that is a really nice pickup at that price. I think the soles have plenty of life and for me, I would not send for a recraft just yet. Rather, I’d find a decent cobbler (doesn’t have to be great) and have a topy glued on the soles. Generally they will build the toe back so the point where the part that has worn away won’t be visible. Will add comfort and life to the shoes. In a couple years, send them back and tell them not to touch the uppers as that is some really nice 8 you got going on. Congrats!
You can get 99% of that oxidation off with a toothbrush and some mild cleansers. Hopefully it won’t take off the paint, but still.
FWIW, my Edward Green boots suffer from the same issues and they are much younger.
Nice boots but why convert the double leather? It’s such a fantastic sole.
Thanks. Personal preference and aesthetics.
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