Antonio Meccariello Argentum Unboxing: RTW vs MTO

In this Antonio Meccariello Argentum Unboxing video, I finally get a chance to inspect and review the craftsman who took the industry by storm around a decade ago and has been making exceptional hand-welted shoes ever since. Believe it or not, this is my first real experience with the prestigious Italian shoemaker and I must say, that his reputation did not let him down at all. In fact, after seeing the shoes, it is even more impressive to understand the value that you receive with each pair. Let’s look further into it.

Unboxing the Argentum Experience

While normally the shoemaker sends me the shoes and I unbox them as if I were a customer, these beautiful Antonio Meccariello shoes came from a follower of The Shoe Snob Blog, who must be one of Antonio’s best clients with over 50 pairs of his shoes. Therefore, I was not able to judge the presentation or packaging of them as I normally do. Needless to say, I imagine that my Antonio Meccariello Argentum Unboxing was more focused on the shoes themselves and the value they offer. The shoes were all they hoped for and more and it is beyond fathomable how they can sell for so low in price.

Ready-to-Wear (RTW) vs. Made-to-Order (MTO)

I had the opportunity to compare a pair of Antonio Meccariello’s Ready-to-Wear (RTW) shoes with a Made-to-Order (MTO) pair, and both were nothing short of exceptional. The craftsmanship on each was remarkable, but the MTO shoes featured intricate technical details that only a true shoe aficionado would fully appreciate. The lasting on the MTO pair was among the finest I’ve ever seen—a testament to the skill involved. Having hand-lasted a pair of shoes myself, I understand firsthand just how challenging this process can be.

That said, the RTW shoes were equally impressive in their own right. While they may not showcase the same bespoke-level nuances as the MTO pair, they still deliver outstanding value and beauty. Both options exemplify some of the best craftsmanship available in European shoemaking, making them an excellent investment for any discerning shoe enthusiast.

Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail

Both pairs showcased detailing typically reserved for bespoke footwear. From the precisely notched heels to the ultra-fine fudging on the welt and flawless sole finishing, every element reflected an uncompromising commitment to craftsmanship. It’s astonishing how so much artistry can be packed into a single pair of shoes at such a competitive price—a true conundrum!

Unboxing the Antonio Meccariello Argentum collection was a powerful reminder of what Italian craftsmanship represents and why Made in Italy remains one of the world’s most revered hallmarks in menswear and footwear alike. While many brands have sacrificed quality in favor of fast fashion, Antonio Meccariello stays true to tradition. The level of attention to detail and dedication to excellence in these shoes is simply unparalleled.

Conclusion

Whether opting for the immediacy of the RTW collection or the personalized journey of the MTO service, Antonio Meccariello’s Argentum line offers footwear that stands as a testament to Italian shoemaking excellence. Each pair not only serves as a functional accessory but also as a piece of art, reflecting the wearer’s appreciation for quality and design.

See more posts about Antonio Meccariello shoes here.

Learn more here: https://www.meccarielloshoes.it/

—Justin FitzPatrick, The Shoe Snob

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