“I am the senior Lobb. I am Chairman and MD and am 73. After leaving school I spent 6 months at the French university Grenoble before joining the firm and learning the practical aspects of the craft with several craftsmen. I subsequently learnt lastmaking which took up a lot of my time for many years. Other branches of the family do various things. I have 2 sons and one young cousin working with me. My uncle was in charge until 1993 when he died and I took his place; this removed me more and more from the shop floor as other duties came my way.

Products from Pukimo Raivio

Kiton, grey sports jacket, size 50EU
Ralph Lauren, Black Label suit, size 52EU

Training young people is a vital part of our work these days. Ther is no shortage of young people keen to work with their hands. I would not rate any particular part of a shoe as more important than another; they all play in important part in producing the best quality shoe. Baker’s is indeed a favorite of ours. Upper leather tanneries are more remote and the leather comes through an agent. We have to be sure of selecting the best. I think kangaroo has been somewhat neglected because it is strong flexible and light weight but I suppose not as dressy as calf. We have however used it regularly for many years. With us it is always a matter of giving the customer exactly what he or she wants. The classic styles continue to please because of their looks and practicality.

Personally I favour the classic styles but my working life has always been directed towards the craft and the work we do for customers rather than a personal stylishness. The John Lobb readymade shoes run by John Lobb Paris within the Hermes group are where stylishness is more in evidence and indeed they make excellent readymade shoes. I don’t have any exciting hobbies being a family man with rather a large garden and am fairly active in my local parish. My personal opinions are not in the forefront of my mind when it comes to the business. I am always grateful for the faithful customers who are pleased with what we do and also to new customers who come to make a start.”

Pictures: © John Lobb Ltd.