James Taylor & Son is the bespoke shoemaker in England, however this pair is not bespoke but Goodyear welted in China. The history I have written about the founder ZHANG Dong and the interview with current owner of James Taylor & Son. In this article, we only focus on the shoes. The shoes are actually made by the same factory of Mattina, and the last was developed by the very respected bespoke shoemaker in Shenyang China, Jinzi Huang.
From the proportion and pattern, we can say this is a pair of contemporary English shoes.
Check out mine.
Last
The toe is small round and slightly elongated, which you can say it is a combination of English and Italian last, the same thing actually happens to many English shoemakers as well. The last fits Asian wide forefoot without sacrificing outside streamline. the heel cup holds foot heel very well.
Pattern
Quarter brogue cap toe oxford, a very classic pattern design, nothing outstanding, neither anything bad.
Leather
Leather quality is fantastic and I highly doubt it is Vocalou from French tannery Annonay.
Construction
Welt stitch density is not quite impressive and edge fudging is good.
Out Sole
Closed channel sole with logo and size at the waist. The logo is great!
Details
On the lining, handwritten model number M104, colour Tan and size 245 are enough.
Conclusion
Not discussing the dispute between this Chinese brand and English shoemaker, the shoes are not bad at all.