The Greatest Dress Shoe Ever Produced in the USA
Johnston & Murphy Handmade 100s – The Regency
The allure of timeless craftsmanship often lies not just in the product but in the story it tells.
In the realm of fine footwear, few pieces exemplify this better than the Johnston & Murphy
Handmade 100s – The Regency. Once a beacon of American shoemaking excellence, this
rare Oxford stands as a testament to an era when the United States led the world in
ready-to-wear shoe craftsmanship.
At The Elegant Oxford, we believe that investing in quality footwear is not just about
aesthetics—it’s about sustainability, longevity, and preserving the art of shoemaking. Let’s
explore what makes these shoes extraordinary and how you can ensure their care and
longevity with the right tools and techniques.
A Relic of a Golden Era
The Regency hails from the golden age of American shoemaking, a period marked by
unparalleled attention to detail and artistry. While many brands from that era have faded into history or outsourced their craftsmanship overseas, the Johnston & Murphy Handmade 100s stood apart. Launched in 1991 and priced at an astonishing $1,000, these shoes epitomized the pinnacle of American footwear.
Johnston & Murphy 1992 Catalog
Their construction included hand-welted and hand-lasted techniques—practices that have become almost extinct in modern ready-to-wear shoes. The Regency wasn't merely a shoe; it was a masterpiece. Every stitch, every contour, and every element spoke of dedication to excellence.
A Design Rooted in Modesty and Elegance
To the untrained eye, The Regency may seem like a simple Oxford. However, its understated elegance is a deliberate design choice, revealing layers of sophistication upon closer inspection.
The Spade Sole
One of the most striking features of The Regency is its spade sole. This bold design, with its sharply flared edges converging at a single point, accentuates the shoe’s proportions, creating a dramatic yet refined silhouette.
Closed-Channel Stitching
A hallmark of fine shoemaking, closed-channel stitching conceals the stitches holding the sole and welt together beneath a carefully lifted and resealed flap of leather. This not only enhances the shoe’s aesthetic but also protects the stitches from wear.
The Swan Neck Detail
Perhaps the most unique aspect of The Regency is the swan neck—a brogued pattern near the laces that breaks the monotony of straight lines. This subtle flourish adds a touch of character without overwhelming the shoe’s elegant simplicity.
A Testament to Sustainability and Longevity
Investing in high-quality shoes like The Regency isn’t just about owning a piece of history—it’s a commitment to sustainability. Unlike mass-produced shoes, which often wear out quickly and end up in landfills, handmade shoes are built to last for decades with proper care.
By taking care of your shoes, you not only protect your investment but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. High-end shoes like The Regency can be resoled, reconditioned, and maintained for a lifetime, making them a truly worthwhile investment.
The Tools of the Trade: Caring for Your High-End Shoes
Maintaining shoes of this caliber requires the finest leather care products. At The Elegant Oxford, we recommend the following from Saphir Médaille d'Or and Saphir Beaute du Cuir, the gold standard in leather care:
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Fine Leather Lotion Saphir Médaille d'Or – Gently cleans and nourishes the leather, keeping it supple and hydrated.
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Shoe Polish Cream Saphir Medaille d’Or – Restores color, adds depth, and provides a soft shine to your shoes.
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Pâte de Luxe Saphir Medaille d'Or – For a high-gloss finish that highlights the shoe’s contours and craftsmanship.
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Horsehair Brush 18cm Saphir Beauté du Cuir – Perfect for removing dust and evenly distributing polish.
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Polishing Brush Saphir Medaille d'Or – Ensures a smooth, streak-free finish.
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Spreading Brush Saphir Médaille d'Or – Ideal for precise application of creams and waxes.
For step-by-step instructions, refer to our comprehensive guide: The Ultimate Shoe Shining Guide.
Preserving History, One Shoe at a Time
The Johnston & Murphy Handmade 100s – The Regency is more than just a shoe; it’s a reminder of the craftsmanship and pride that defined an era. As Preston Soto eloquently describes in his video, shoes like these are rare artifacts of a bygone time—a bittersweet reminder of what once was.
At The Elegant Oxford, we aim to keep this legacy alive by inspiring our customers to invest in quality footwear and care for it with the reverence it deserves. Whether you own a pair of vintage masterpieces or modern high-end shoes, the right care products and techniques can make all the difference.
Start Your Shoe Care Journey Today
Step into the world of fine footwear with confidence. Explore our curated collection of Saphir Médaille d'Or products and discover how the right tools can help you maintain your shoes’ elegance and longevity.
Let’s preserve history, one polished shoe at a time.
Warm regards,
Preston Soto
The Elegant Oxford
Excellence in Every Step
