The Simon model features a double stitched toe and single monk strap, for a sporty, casual take on this classic style.
We've always been fans of a classic single monk, a perfect shoe to compliment sport coat and trouser separates. As a semi-casual shoe we started with the split-toe design of our Jubilee derby and added a warm toned buckle fastening. The name is a tribute to our well dressed friend, Simon Crompton.
Our Hajime 始め last is inspired by the Japanese word for ‘beginning’. The last features our signature soft chisel toe, a low, sleek profile, and a wider forefoot.
Made on our classic Hajime last, we adjusted the stitching from the original Jubilee model to be further down on the toe. This makes for a slightly more elongated appearance.
The idea was to create something that would be reminiscent of mid-century racecars, with a low-slung silhouette and sweeping lines blowing back toward the shoe’s quarters. To compensate for the shallower profile, Fukuda-san widened the ball of the foot to ensure comfort.
A monk shoe is best in black calf, a true classic. The Simon makes for a great casual alternative to the Gloucester.
Our calf leathers are sourced from the 150 year old Weinheimer-Leder tannery in Germany.
The goal of The Armoury Shoe Collection was to produce a new line of shoes that was uniquely ours. We partnered with the renowned master shoemaker, Yohei Fukuda. Fukuda-san was trained in England and developed his skills under the tutelage of great English shoemakers: John Lobb, Gaziano & Girling and Cleverley. He is an exemplar of classic English shoemaking.
To compliment the lengths that we went to during the design process, Northampton, England seemed like an obvious choice for manufacturing. We partnered with a century old shoe factory who’s skills and experience allowed us to make a hardwearing shoe with our unique style at an accessible level.
In the uncompromising search for quality, all of our shoes are goodyear welted, feature a wooden shank, are fully lined, and made with premium calf leather or suede. They offer exceptional value, especially when well maintained.
Our friend Mr. Slowboy illustrated our shoebox labels. Our shoe models are named after special landmarks in Hong Kong or New York, the home of The Armoury, the illustrations show those places on the outside of the box.