This pair is from Medallion Collection, which is the cooperation between Antonio Meccariello and Chinese shoe boutique Medallion. Antonio Meccariello is highly praised by shoe aficionados around the world for its great value.
Let us have a look at this pair.
Last
The last is B05 and lasts of Antonio Meccariello are too many and complex, I highly doubt whether there are people remembering all of them and the connection between the numbers and their names.
The above illustration is a good summary, but the sad fact is Antonio increases every year, and no number is mentioned to connect them numbers.
I feel B05 is Argentum Chisel 2, a little elongated chisel toe with a great silhouette.
Pattern
Five eyelets derby, a quite ordinary model.
Tow small pattern design elements, one is the shape of ankle piece, the other is the dog tail is quite long to connect both sides.
Leather
Creases are very fine and I believe nobody would complain for this quality of leather.
I found something deserving a discussion that the leather used around ankle is much worse than vamp. Some may say this is a bad thing, but my take is to maximize usage of leather, worse area can be used on some unnoticeable place, such as this one. Of course, if the whole pair is perfect that is better.
Craftsmanship
The stitch method of the apron is the most used one, A1776 does not feature an exquisite feeling but rough and sturdy.
The welt is where sets apart Antonio Meccariello with others, especially who is at its price point, even much higher ones. Neatly fudged and stitches sit right on the fudge then covered by wax. Welt edge is cornered and the whole feeling is wonderful.
Outsole
Strongly bevelled waist looks marvellous and beams a glamour of bespoke shoes.
Details
Prints alongside with stitches, I suspect it was caused by sewing machine which gripped the leather too tightly.
Fit
I am not a fan of elongated shoes, more broadly, not a fan of Italian shoes, however Antonio Meccariello is an exception as he handles the outer curve masterfully.
Conclusion
If Italian shoes are the only thing I can choose from, Antonio Meccariello probably comes to the first.