Alden's answer to the wait on the 987 and 986. Same Van last, same LHS silhouette, built with a machine-stitched moccasin front so Middleborough can keep up with demand. In calfskin instead of cordovan, which quiets it down a shade and lets us build it at a Canadian price that doesn't ask a customer to sit on a list.
The black calfskin here is dressed under a soft gloss out of the box. It quiets down with polish and a little wear, then holds a proper shine on the toe and heel where you want one. The full penny strap carries the classic lozenge cutout, no ornament, no seasonal trim. Rapid welt, flat leather sole, half slip heel. It is meant to last decades and be recrafted, not replaced.
Wear it with grey flannel, dark denim, or tobacco chinos. Formal enough for a jacket, easy enough for a Saturday. If a client is buying their first pair from us this year, most of them start here or with the 986.