J.M. Weston | Cordovan Shoes, Exclusively Available at Isetan
J.M. Weston│J.M. Weston
Japan-Exclusive Versions of the Popular "180 Loafer" and "Golf"
Cordovan Shoes Available Only at Isetan
Cordovan, known as the "jewel of leather" for its lustrous sheen. Starting November 10th, J.M. Weston's popular "180 Loafer" and "Golf" models, crafted from cordovan (leather from the hindquarters of a horse) by Shinki Co., Ltd. – a tannery renowned for its unparalleled, world-class horsehide craftsmanship – will be available at the shoe section on the basement floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building. Shinki Co., Ltd. is a leather company that produces the world's finest horsehide through exceptional leatherworking techniques.
Text by OPENERSPhotos by Mizuho Takada (Shoes)Photos by J.M. Weston (Factory)
Japan's Finest Cordovan, Sewn and Finished in France, Then Re-imported
"Classic and long-selling models are always popular in the high-end men's shoe category," says Shota Kondo, Buyer for Isetan's Merchandising Division, Men's Shoes. We spoke with the key figure behind the creation of these Isetan-exclusive "180 Loafer" and "Golf" models.
—What led to using cordovan for these iconic J.M. Weston shoes?
We frequently received customer requests for cordovan shoes, so the project began with a proposal to create elegant shoes that highlight the beauty of cordovan leather, in collaboration with J.M. Weston.
—When did this project start?
About a year ago. We had Shinki Co., Ltd., globally recognized for its cordovan, create leather samples and sent them to J.M. Weston's Limoges factory.
From the Shinki Co., Ltd. factory
—Why did you choose Shinki Co., Ltd.'s cordovan?
Shinki Co., Ltd.'s cordovan finishes exceptionally beautifully. In addition to the known characteristics of horsehide, the leather has a unique resilience and a glass-like luster. Furthermore, Shinki's cordovan pairs well with French finishing techniques, such as using Saphir shoe cream from France, which was a significant factor.
—They launch on the 10th. How do you feel about the final product?
We finally achieved a satisfactory level with the third sample. Cordovan is difficult to finish; bringing out the leather's transparency and depth through the final polish was challenging, but we have completed the refined and dressy "180 Loafer" and "Golf" models.
"180 Loafer" ¥194,250 (Isetan Exclusive)
"Golf" ¥204,750 (Isetan Exclusive)
The Familiar Loafer and Golf, Yet Something is Different
—From your perspective, Mr. Kondo, what is the appeal of J.M. Weston?
Perhaps it's the French-style dress-casual aesthetic. For the "180 Loafer," the last (shoe form) has remained unchanged since its inception, and the leather for the soles is made in-house. Fans appreciate the brand's unwavering commitment to tradition. These cordovan shoes represent a significant decision for J.M. Weston.
From the Limoges factory in France
From the Limoges factory in France
—What do you mean by a "significant decision"?
Actually, J.M. Weston has traditionally tended to avoid using cordovan. This collaboration came about specifically because it's an Isetan exclusive for Japan.
From the Limoges factory in France
From the Limoges factory in France
—These are rare models. Do you have any recommendations for our readers?
In Japan, many customers aspire to wear "Westons," and this cordovan collection is a new endeavor. Production is limited, but these are shoes that can be worn for 10, even 20 years. Please come and see these elegant shoes – the "Loafer" and "Golf" that are familiar yet somehow different.
—Thank you very much.
Isetan Shinjuku
3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3352-1111 (Main Operator)
Hours | 10:00–20:00 (Irregular Holidays)
J.M. Weston Japan
Tel. 03-6805-1691
www.jmweston.com