Japanese Quality, Inherited | REGAL
REGAL | Regal
The Reason Behind Timeless Shoes Loved Across Generations
Regal's plain-toe model "2504," crafted for nearly half a century, is an unparalleled masterpiece with an enduring charm in the history of Japanese shoemaking. The models in the new spinoff series, derived from this iconic design this season, remind us that objects loved across eras are precisely what we need now.
Photographs by Yasuyuki Suzuki(Studio Log)Styling by INADA IsseyText by TAKEISHI Yasuhiro(City Writes)Edit by ITO Yuji
An Enduring Bestseller Born from Strong Conviction
In the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends change rapidly, the cycle has accelerated in recent years due to IT advancements. Within this fashion landscape, creating items that are loved across multiple generations is an exceptionally difficult feat. Regal's "2504" model, produced for nearly half a century, is one such rare, long-selling item.
Regal Corporation, established as a shoe manufacturer in 1902, was an early adopter, introducing the Goodyear welt construction method to Japan in 1914. Since then, the company has continued to produce Goodyear welt shoes for 100 years. This history is nothing less than a relentless pursuit of research, development, and technical refinement to realize the unwavering belief of 'making high-quality, long-lasting leather shoes in Japan.'
The "2504" has been produced for approximately 50 years. Such long-selling shoes are rare globally, and there are even anecdotes of people using them across two or three generations.
In this process, "2504" was developed about 50 years ago to fit the Japanese foot shape to a masterpiece plain-toe from its partner, the American Brown Shoe Company (now Clarks Company). Notably, while the basic design remains the same, it has continuously evolved over the eras, utilizing the latest shoemaking technology. The reason "2504" has been loved for so long, with many fathers and sons alike choosing to wear it, is undoubtedly due to the fusion of an unchanging philosophy and constant evolution.
The "2504" first model, shown in the foreground, was developed in Japan to fit the Japanese foot shape to the original Brown Shoe Company model in the background of the left photo. Both are preserved at the Regal Corporation headquarters. The photo on the right shows a sample of the Goodyear welt construction, boasting over 100 years of history.
Evolution Born from a Masterpiece: The Spinoff Models
While the "2504" possesses a nostalgic form, it also balances modern proportions, and combined with its timeless plain-toe design, it evokes a sense of universality that transcends eras. It's understandable that not only long-time fans but also younger generations continue to purchase it today. This autumn/winter, Regal has refocused on the fundamental appeal of the "2504" and introduced a spinoff series that represents a new evolution for the next generation.
The spinoff series consists of four basic models: the plain-toe, echoing the original; a straight tip with perforations; a U-tip; and a monk strap. Each embodies the universality inherited from the "2504," yet their sculpted, three-dimensional forms with excellent fit also convey a refined modernity. Achieving such complex shapes with the Goodyear welt construction requires advanced techniques from skilled artisans. This is a new standard of 'learning from the past to create the new,' made possible by Regal's craftsmanship honed in Japan over more than a century.
On the left is the current "2504" model (¥24,000), and on the right is the new spinoff model "04NR" (¥28,000). While basic designs like the thick stitching next to the laces, a key icon, are maintained, a comparison reveals how the form has evolved into a more modern and stylish silhouette.
Timeless Value That Shines Today
The spinoff series of "2504," which combines universality with modernity, possesses a presence that aligns with today's fashion keyword of 'classic with a sense of the times.' The basic design matches classic styles, but the modern form prevents it from appearing dated. Furthermore, its timeless aesthetic is not overly dressy, making it a great match not only for dress styles like suits and jackets but also for casual outfits. The high versatility, inherited from the masterpiece "2504," will undoubtedly prove useful for both on and off-duty occasions.
The spinoff series also features updated functionality, such as the adoption of a hybrid rubber sole that enhances slip resistance and considers durability. This 2017 Autumn/Winter season, Regal offers a rich lineup of new series that combine unwavering conviction, the latest features, and a style that captures the essence of the times. In today's fashion scene, where trends change rapidly and items quickly fall out of favor, we hope you find a pair from Regal that allows you to experience the enduring value of something you can love for a long time. [PR]
A windowpane-patterned three-piece suit, evoking this season's British classic style. The cap-toe model from the spinoff series creates a modern, non-traditional look. The lightness from the tailored, three-dimensional silhouette also dispels any excessive heaviness.
The classic navy blazer and gray pants jacket style is perfectly complemented by the basic plain-toe. It's a timeless combination, yet just like the silhouette of the jacket and pants, the shoe's form exudes a modern sensibility, preventing it from looking dated.
A U-tip offers the perfect match for this season's casual style, featuring a duffle coat, a quintessential British classic outerwear. Unlike the rustic, country feel often associated with U-tips, these shoes achieve a sophisticated urban look, thanks to the balanced and sleek upper and form.