I purchased these seeking a lower cost alternative to the Allen Edmonds Park avenues.  On paper these are a no brainer--welted construction, calf leather, leather sole, and a low price. However the poor finish and terrible execution of these shoes has been a complete let down.

The finish of these shoes is uneven, and results in a very cheap looking product.  The edge banding of the lower soles like black fingernail polish applied by a 5 year old with a sponge mop.  The heel sides have several rough areas, runs in the finish, and brush strokes.  The leather of these shoes is extremely soft.  After a single day of pounding the pavement on my 100 foot walk from the car to my office, I have several scratches that have nearly cut through the upper material.

Overall these are a terribly flawed shoe whose quality is bested by some $20 shoes from Target.

For comparison's sake, I own a pair of Allen Edmonds Amok chukka boots that have seen 5+years of daily use with only minimal wear.  Do yourself a favor and buy a pair of used Allen Edmonds Park Avenues on e-bay for $75, and have them recrafted by AE for $75.  For $50 more you'll own a pair of shoes that completely outclass the Meltons and will last for years to come.