This is the homework assigned by one reader, and I think it is a little unfair, because the price of Jimjun is around 4000, while Mattina is around 2000. Once they were at the same price.
What to compare?
I think it cannot be aesthetics. I’m not saying that it’s subjective and can’t be compared, but there are too many styles from Jimjun, good and bad, and every style on Mattina’s side is carefully refined.
Then, both brands have great lasts.
So what can be compared is craftsmanship and quality!
My verdict is Jimjun wins.
Here we go, red-brown Jimjun and black Mattina Elgar.
Leather quality wise, Jimjun is better.
Goodyear construction, welt is the focus, both brands have worked hard on it.
Let’s talk about Mattina’s first. Not only is it fudged, but it cut the edge to 45 degrees downward, which is the only one I have seen so far. It can make fudging more obvious.
Jimjun’s fudge is flat and the density is not as high as Mattina’s. However, you can see how narrow its welt is! And this, realized by machine, is difficult. Shoes are also more exquisite in texture.
Heel, except Cuban heel is different from this design, you can also see whether there is a gap where the upper and heel are combined. The higher the end, or the process closer to bespoke, the smaller the suture. In fact, Mattina’s has done a good job, but Jimjun’s is obviously at another level. In this detail, Jimjun is probably the best machine Goodyear has done, better than John Lobb. This is not boasting, but seeking truth from facts.
Jimjun has a narrow waist, and I believe that is because Jimjun is handwelted.
It does look more advanced and elegant when the arch is put in.
The lining leather, which may not be seen in this picture, Mattina’s feels rough by hand, while Jimjun feels more smooth. Jimjun has a better touch.
Summary
Jimjun does worth more than Mattina.