One of the many pleasures of visiting the Alden shoe factory is the opportunity to see shoes you don’t normally see. We visited last March and got a look at the archives and some very interesting shoes. Sadly many are no longer produced but fortunately the Atom wingtip blucher or “Shortwing” in the parlance of our times is.
Original Atom Wingtip Blucher
The Atom was originally part of the Foot Balance System made on the Truflare last. Our Atom is tweaked a bit here and there. We went with a more conventional five-eyelet blucher on the Tremont last and used the new “burnished” tan calfskin for the uppers, a deeper, richer color than the old tan.
We detailed these shoes with versatility in mind; they can be worn equally well casually or for business. The soles are single leather bone bottoms with mid tan edges they’re light and flexible. The Tremont last fits similar to the Barrie but has a round higher toe box with a slight chiseled drop that adds a bit of formality that the Barrie lacks. All and all we think this is one of our most versatile Alden make-ups.
Atom, Tremont Last, Burnished Tan Calfskin – $480
9 Comments
I own this shoe in Shell Cordovan on the Barrie last and enjoy it very much. It’s a nice unconventional alternative to the standard Alden LWB. I agree that your choice of the Tremont last is an improvement.
Jacob,
Thank you, what color shell is your pair?
Steven
Hello Steven,
They are my one and only pair of black shells. They’re on the crepe sole and I use them for rainy days.
Regards,
Jacob
Do you recommend ordering the Tremont in the same size as the Barrie?
Thanks.
Yes we recommend sizing down a half size for the Tremont last.
Steven
Is there any way of getting hold of these in Europe? Or do I need to take a trip to NY?
Dear Olof
Please contact directly and we will be happy to assist you.
Steven
I want to come in and try the Burnished Tan Atom in 11.5 and in 12. Before I make the trip, do you have them?
John
We have an 11D and 12D in stock 11.5 is sold out.
Thanks
Steven