(Part 3) Top products from r/frugalmalefashion

To understand what shoe care needs: Shoe Care Guide

To clean leather products: Saddle Soap

To condition leather products: Venetian Shoe cream (VSC) or Saphir Renovateur or [Allen Edmonds Leather Lotion] (http://www.allenedmonds.com/aeonline/cati2_ShoeCareProductss_1_40000000001_-1________subcategory#facet=&sId=216&sort=5&ps=1000&bi=0)

To "protect" leather you have 2 options:

1. "Light" protection (Not permanent) - Mink oil. (WILL DARKEN LEATHER!! - Not recommended on light leathers / dress shoes)
   
   
2. "Heavy-duty" protection - Obenauf's or Sno Seal
   
   If you're walking around in snow / rain with dress shoes: Galoshes/ Overshoes
   
   
   
   And being more specific helps. If you live in warmer climates, Mink oil and Obenauf's are most likely unnecessary, and products like VSC and Saphir would be great.
   
   Avoid products from DSW and most B&M stores (unless well reviewed and recommended!) and the likes as they aren't great in quality (personal experience) - and if you're spending hundreds on shoes, consider spending a few dollars more to taking care of them goes far.

Ok I was really debating between Obenauf's or sno seal, but I think you convinced me about Obernauf. But which Obenauf's should I use the heavy duty lp http://www.amazon.com/Obenaufs-Heavy-Duty-4oz-Preserves/dp/B003SKCARK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382402091&sr=8-1&keywords=Obenauf%27s

The boot preservative
http://www.amazon.com/Obenaufs-LP-Boot-Preservative-Preserves/dp/B0002X520S/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382402091&sr=8-2&keywords=Obenauf%27s

Or the silicone water shield
http://www.amazon.com/Obenaufs-Silicone-Water-Shield-Environmentally/dp/B002UBLSO4/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1382402091&sr=8-6&keywords=Obenauf%27s

Or maybe a combination of the heavy duty lp and the silicone water shield? I don't want to spend more money then necessary but before I take my boots out into the world I want to make sure they're properly prepared for the elements. Oh and thanks for the help guys! All of this is very informative and helpful.

Pretty standard MFA answer, but Bass Buckinghams should serve you pretty well for the casual end of the business casual spectrum at a reasonable price.

For more traditional brown leather oxfords, some options that might work well for you are Florsheims, Bostonians, or thrifted/eBay Allen Edmonds as per this guide. Another source that's been easy for me lately has been checking clearance DSW shelves for brands like Mercanti Fiorentini, Johnston & Murphy, or Cole Haan on steep discounts.

Gonna throw out some picks, depending on your style, take and pick what you like, sorry to hear about the flood bruddah.

Picking suiting is pretty standard and easy around these parts so I'm just going to pick casual stuff

Wolverine 1000 mile boots in Rust (Factory Seconds) ≈ $170 Depending on coupon. Grab these quick if you like them, since they rarely re stock this much. Made in America and Chromexcel Leather

Luther's Raw Selvedge Tapered - $115. Made in America

Orion Leather Belt - You Choose ≈ $45 or slightly less with first purchase coupon. Made in America

Levi Classic Trucker in Rigid ≈ $60

White / Black V neck T's of Your Choosing ≈ Varies

Handful of OCBD and Chambray Button Ups- Uniqlo ≈ $25 Per Shirt

Grey Suede Bucks - Bass or Banana Republic for the $60- $100 range or Walk Over brand for $200+ but Goodyear Welt and Made in America

Journey's No Show Socks - So you can wear your bucks and any slip ons with socks but look sockless

Dockers Alpha Khakis - $35 - $40 per Pair

Throw in a couple of merino wool sweaters (or cotton if you're not big on sweaters such as myself) and a thrifted blazer or two and you're ready for pretty much anything.

If you bought all of this you would only have around $300 for suiting, which probably isn't enough, but hopefully I've given you some ideas of what you might like to rebuild. Everything on the list is pretty solid quality and should last, with the exception of the cheaper suede bucks which might fall apart, or might not, who knows

Other than Seiko 5 you've got really slim pickings on your hands. If you're looking for something formal I'd say this: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B002SSUQF6/ref=pd_aw_lpo_241_bs_img_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3G086RE1M3SZXAQD3SN0 - but in all honesty I'd say save up about $250 and then start looking. /R/watches is a great resource

Funny. I bought this one and then bought my dad the snk793 and it's GORGEOUS. The blue face looks waaaaay better than the pictures on Amazon, I was really impressed.

That's a pretty beautiful watch for $135, don't think you'll get much better than that for under $150-200.

EDIT: Might suggest checking out these as well over on Amazon:
Invicta, black face, steel band, auto watch, ~$80
or
Invicta, blue face, steel band, auto watch, ~$75

I have a Navali Helmsman Canvas & Leather brand new with the tags that I'll let go for 50 or best offer. Here's the product page.
http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Helmsman-Canvas-Leather-Computer/dp/B005MS6YDC

---

This ebay listing is for a Universal Works jacket/blazer in size M. 200 obo. Great condition.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281453130468?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

---

I also have some Wolverine 1000 Centennial boots for sale. Size 11 in Cuban Brown. 220 obo.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281461584054?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

---

Universal Works Heskin Sweatshirt Navy size large. Brand new. 49 obo.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281468622831?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

---

Fjallraven Oban jacket, olive, large. Brand new. 100.
http://www.backcountry.com/fjallraven-oban-jacket-mens?CMP_SKU=FJR002S&MER=0406&skid=FJR002S-GN-XL&CMP_ID=SH_SHP001&mv_pc=r110&003=7163546&010=FJR002S-GN-XL&mr:referralID=b030ac75-5542-11e4-a1c0-001b2166c2c0

Great write-up!

Is the Weekender in this photo the same as this? Looks like a different strap and the second hand is red in yours.

The only thing close with a similar look and 22 band size is this one. $67 dollars after the 20% coupon, which is about how much I ended up paying for the seiko 5, band, and spring bar kit.

Or you could go with this large easy reader for one on the cheap.

However if you have a little more to spend and you don't care for movement, this watch is probably one the best quality/nicest looking ones quartz watch is this one in my opinion. However once you're around the $100 range there are tons of options. /r/watches is a good resource.

There is this Maliseet Oxford by Quoddy that's quite beautiful. It's not suede, but it's probably more versatile because of that. It is quite expensive however. You seem to really want a shoe like this and it would get a lot of use since you have many outfits to match... so why not save up and buy a shoe that will last?

Or just go with buckinghams. Also a good idea, though I don't know if they have a blue suede w/ red brick sole.

Docker's Alpha Khakis in frontier brown. I've got a pair, love them, although they're best in the fall.

I don't have an album, so message me with your email and I can send you pics.

Seiko 5 automatic with blue face- switched out the bracelet for a brown croc band. Great condition, I'd give it a 8.5/10 because I've worn it. Asking for $50 shipped. Here's a link of what it looks like.

Mark McNairy for Keds size 10 in Navy- worn a few time, 7.5/10. Pretty nice condition. asking $50 shipped. link

Amazon is your best bet. They are 90$ now...if you have prime shipping is free.

Everyone is commenting on the Seiko 5 and without a doubt that is a great starter watch. I would also advise you look at the Citizen AO9000-06B

This is fantastic price and with a new strap it really changes the look of the watch.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QJ69V8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1381431229&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70.
These are the thorogood a that I am talking about.. They use the same Lester as red wings, use a very high quality wedge sole, and prity much only differ from RWs in that they have a synthetic mid-sole... I would probably consider these higher quality than the boots that you linked... Thorogood also has a premium line that goes for $150, but I honestly haven't heard much about them.
Also, something to note is that good leather will darken substantially with use (especially oiled leather)... If you were to water seal either boot it would darken quite a bit... I would check out "frostinhisbones" on tumblr and see what his boots look like... That is simply from wear and sno seal (they are the ones that i linked)

Not sure if all of these are quite what you want, but here are some ideas.

Skagen for under $100

Citizen Eco-Drive for just over $100

Orient, IMO this model is great bang for your buck b/c sapphire crystal is unusual at this price point

Orient with open heart

Automatic Orient

Really cheap Orient

Orient Symphony automatic

Orient Capital quartz watch

A few look nice, but I can't wear a pair that isn't polarized. I ordered these which have been great so far

Thanks for all of the information. I am willing to slide that price point up a bit, but I don't want to get carried away. The 20% off coupon will be huge.

I went over the Nordstrom Rack today and tried on a bunch of stuff (none of them came in wide :( ). Most everything was way too tight, but surprisingly a pair of 14M Clarks (these ones,$72 on amazon). Felt wide enough, but too long since my heel kept sliding up. I probably will stop back in and try a 13M just to see how that feels. I like the look of the Clarks a bunch, but I am looking for something a little bit more, say, rugged.

I am going to keep an eye on those Chippewas.

Thanks again for the advice.

https://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Industries-Slim-Fit-Removable-Faux-Fur/dp/B004DQHW9O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483374807&sr=8-1&keywords=slim%2Bfit%2Bparka&th=1&psc=1

Anything like this under $50? I like the fit on this, it could be just a tad tiny bit slimmer though.

I really like when watches don't have numbers. Just personal preference, I think it looks nicer.

Bulova

Skagen

Timex, 2, and 3

Dockers Alpha in Butterscotch are pretty close. They look shitty on the model but everyone loves Alphas.

http://www.amazon.com/Dockers-Alpha-Khaki-Slim-Tapered-Flat-Front/dp/B004VQ9APK

Looks like amazon has similar pricing, more colors/sizes, and probably cheaper if you don't have tax or if you use a credit card for cash back.

http://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Industries-Mens-N-3B-Parka/dp/B0080NI6A0

I like this citizen for 140 after the 20% amazon code
http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-AO9000-06B-Eco-Drive-Stainless-Day-Date/dp/B00843L4S2/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1396558747&sr=8-3&keywords=citizen

Its fairly similar in terms of look. I also like the contrast of the light blue

I ordered http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Helmsman-Canvas-Leather-Computer/dp/B005MS6YDC/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418942371&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=navali+helmsmen from amazon a while back. I used the bag maybe 3 times, and the zipper busted on me. The zipper functions like this now: http://www.laupre.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/MIbrokenzip.jpg. I submitted a customer service ticket via http://www.navali.com/contacts, and never got a response.
Order# 107-3553425-0888220, bought the bag around in May. Used it three times to hold my laptop, charger, 3DS, and kindle. The zipper blew out on me a little before Thanksgiving, which is when I submitted the contact ticket.

Bad experience with product. Bad experience with customer service.
The bag did look nice while it worked though.

EDIT:
Went to the site again and this time a Live Chat box popped up with a customer service rep to speak with. I relayed the above information to him and he said "Nick
Oh no I'm so sorry to hear that! We'll gladly repair or replace it for you at no charge!
could you just send an email to [email protected] with the info you just submitted to me? that way our returns team can dea with it first thing in the morning!"

Wondering why I wasn't responded to previously, but this is an improvement!

Pretty sure OP was reffering to purchasing Dockers alpha khakis on Amazon

Rub some Obenauf's Leather Protecter onto your Sperrys, best decision I've made when it comes to leather products.
http://www.amazon.com/Obenaufs-LP-Boot-Preservative-Preserves/dp/B0002X520S

Hello!

I just recently bought a watch after researching for a couple of week, so I can share my "research" with you. Some things to note, my budget was about half of yours, and my taste tends to lean towards more minimal watches. anyway:

Citizen Watches

• Citizen Men's BM8242-08E "Eco-Drive" Gold and Brown
  
  
• Citizen Men's BM8240-03E "Eco-Drive" Silver and Black
  
  Nixon
  
  
• Nixon Sentry Leather Watch - Silver and brown
  
  
• Different model of above - brushed metal
  
  Seiko
  
  
• Seiko Men's SNE102 Brown With Blue Dial Watch
  
  
• Seiko Men's SNE054 Solar Strap Black Dial Watch
  
  
• Seiko Men's Solar Watch With Grey Dial
  
  
  Keep in mind that I mainly focused on the faces of the watch, as you can get new strap for fairly cheap. I also suggest looking at Timex for some cheaper alternatives.

The exact same belt on Amazon is $44.99 with free shipping. Thats not bad compared to $59

I'm looking for a stylish winter jacket, do you think I should just go with this cheap H&M parka, or shell out the extra cash for this alpha industries parka. I'm also more willing to spend the money on the alpha industries parka since I have a $100 amazon gift card.

I like this watch: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0044XDZII/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?qid=1395102404&sr=1-7&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70
Should I buy the Casio 5 and a aftermarket leather strap or go for the one above? I would probably guess a twenty dollar difference after everything. Is it worth it?

This watch is beautiful:

http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-AO9000-06B-Eco-Drive-Stainless-Day-Date/dp/B00843L4S2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409083315&sr=8-1&keywords=citizen+aO9000-06B

Yep. They're the Alpha Skinny vs. Slim Tapered that we regularly see around here. Fits similar to Levi 510. I recommend sizing up 1 for these actually.

Yeah usually the most expensive piece is the watch. If you get a versatile piece like one of the different Seiko 5 models or a Timex Weekender instead of what I use you can usually knock at least $100 off the price of the outfit.

The Bass Buckingham Perhaps?

• Link: Bass Buckingham
  
  
• Variation: Bass Pasodena
  
  Both Are Generally well reviewed on this sub as well.
  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00065FWR0/ref=pd_aw_sim_watch_5?pi=SY115

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000GAWSHC/ref=pd_aw_sim_watch_2?pi=SY115

If you want a cheap watch to tide you over, I've heard good things about these.

> 20OFFVET

I just tried it and couldn't get it to work on this specific one. Did you have any luck?

Amazon actually sells some of the CLubmasters for a decent price. Notably a pair like this would be only about $95. Link

So like.... which one fits best for this watch? I'm too lazy to do the math... and research.

http://www.amazon.com/Invicta-8926OB-Stainless-Automatic-Bracelet/dp/B000JQFX1G/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1425484727&sr=1-1&keywords=8926ob

Use code: SLICKECO10 to take $10 off, shipping is $5 for a final price of $144.

5/5 stars with 23 reviews on Amazon (currently $225). Lowest this has ever been on Amazon is $180 which was for 1 day before it sold out.

Reviews:

http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-CA0331-05A-Eco-Drive-Stainless-Chronograph/dp/B00843LBLM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1396551270&sr=8-1&keywords=Citizen+Men%27s+CA0331-05A+Eco-Drive+Stainless+Steel+Chronograph+Watch

I think this thing looks really classy for the price.

I don't own this . . . just wanted to throw it out there in case you like it

I prefer this invicta instead. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000JQFX1G/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1415130385&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

A little bit cheaper and I like the automatic movement and feel. They also have a Quartz version even cheaper

Alpha Industries Men's N-3B Slim-Fit Parka

Bought a M in the recent Amazon lightning sale, paid $70. Amazon is not letting me exchange for size S without paying regular price now. If anyone wants this jacket I'm willing to pass the deal along plus actual shipping to you and any Paypal fee.

As a clarifier of what tesoro said:

• "hardened mineral" is pretty much the cheapest stuff on the market. You won't expect much more out of a $50 watch, but the upgrades are sapphire or hardlex (which start at watches around $100).
  
• 3 atm water resistance means NOTHING. I would be careful washing your face while wearing it, and don't even think about taking it in the shower.
  
  These are the same specs as the weekender. In addition, there's no mention of lume. 40mm face with this design will throw it in the ring with the rest of the gaudily large fashion watches nowadays.
  
  How does this beat a $60 watch with lume, automatic movement, and 20atm water resistance rating? or a $65 watch that comes with a bracelet?
  
  For twice the price of the weekender, are you really getting a whole lot more with this?

Just bought this today:

http://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Industries-Mens-N-3B-Parka/dp/B0080NI6A0/

If you don't think slim fit will work for you, there's one in regular fit for even cheaper.

Amazon Wayfarer polarized sunglasses. $3.53 with free shipping. I have two pairs of these and they're great. No worries about losing/breaking them because they're dirt cheap.

highly rated on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-BM8240-03E-Eco-Drive-Stainless-Leather/dp/B000EQS1D8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421814760&sr=8-1&keywords=Citizen+Black+Dial+Mens+Watch+BM8240-03E

Lots in stock on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Industries-Parka-Replica-Small/dp/B004DQHW9O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407878554&sr=8-2&keywords=n-3b

The Thorogood is 20% off on Amazon with coupon code SPSHOE14. For a size 10.5 that's only $128, and you have it in 2-days with Prime.

And the 6-inch is even cheaper (obviously).

Bass Pasadenas Taupe are 60 on Amazon and I just got a pair at DSW today for 50.

I found these shoes in this color for amazon at approximately the same price here.

If you look around on Amazon, you can get some of them even cheaper, such as: http://www.amazon.com/Casio-MQ24-7E-Classic-Analog-Watch/dp/B00065FWR0/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1370540745&sr=8-7&keywords=casio+classic

Back on Amazon for $25. 7 Left in stock at the time of this comment.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005MS6YDC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A211ZG3WSEVQUO

This or this is what you want.

I'd suggest looking into Bulovas. Not a perfect match, but look at their collection. They have a lot with the simplistic style that you're going for.

They're also known for being a solid brand in this price range.

It should work fine, but I'd further protect/waterproof it with Obeneuf's LP.

Choose half a size down from your Brannock size

Amazon history says I got these

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042FM1VA?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

I also have the knock-off Clubmasters and they're not nearly as good as the Wayfarers

The picture they show is the brown leather version which I personally prefer, here is a picture of the Beeswax one you're actually buying: http://www.amazon.com/Clarks-Mens-Bushacre-Beeswax-Leather/dp/B00512GTF2/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Size 10 Thorogood Moc Toe Boots price down to $78

http://www.amazon.com/Ray-Ban-Classic-Clubmaster-Sunglasses-Tortoise/dp/B001GNBJQY/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1427343101&sr=1-1&keywords=clubmasters

If you don't mind a white wedge boot of much higher quality than Eastlands ($98 with the 30% off promo), then check out Thorogood moc toes.

Judging by the slimmer toebox, I think they're the Bass Pasadenas

the citizen Eco-Drive CA0331-05A that was on sale a couple of weeks ago looks really similar to the IWC Portuguese. http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-CA0331-05A-Eco-Drive-Stainless-Chronograph/dp/B00843LBLM

http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-CA0295-58E-Eco-Drive-Nighthawk-Watch/dp/B005MKGP6Q/ref=lp_405377011_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1410065431&sr=1-1

Also: http://www.amazon.com/Citizen-CA0331-05A-Eco-Drive-Stainless-Chronograph/dp/B00843LBLM/ref=pd_sbs_a_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1E859P4ERAG1YS7TVGFK

White faced watch with a black strap... This citizen look kinda similar

Although I would wait for a sale. I bought mine with shipping included for $144.

Amazon.

Fairly similar: http://amzn.com/B001QJ69V8

What kind of strap width and length would be equivalent to the strap for this watch http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00843L4S2

Here's the same link sans referral code:

http://www.amazon.com/Casio-MQ24-7E-Classic-Analog-Watch/dp/B00065FWR0/

Bass Buckingham in Taupe. ~$60 with the 20% off shoes coupon.

http://www.amazon.com/Timex-Unisex-T2N893-Weekender-Leather/dp/B0083XFT5M/ref=pd_sbs_watch_7?ie=UTF8&refRID=02TVH2DQEN5WTEZT8VKZ

Taadaaa?

This would be my thought, here

http://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Industries-Mens-N-3B-Parka/dp/B0080NI6A0/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t

CDB currently $40: http://www.amazon.com/Clarks-Mens-Bushacre-Beeswax-Leather/dp/B00512GTF2/ref=sr_1_16?m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ&s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1417304119&sr=1-16

http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Helmsman-Canvas-Leather-Computer/dp/B005MS6YDC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410902138&sr=8-1&keywords=navali+helmsman

14 in stock.. GOoooooooooooooooooooo

http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Helmsman-Canvas-Leather-Computer/dp/B005MS6YDC/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1410902370&sr=1-1&keywords=navali+helmsman

Some additional watches in your price range that were not mentioned that have a timeless look:

Stuhrling White Dial/Black Strap

Skagen Black on Black

Citizen's Black on Black

this seiko

Not sure how versatile black shoes are, I am assuming you are drawn by the color contrasting sole.

I would looking into some Bass Bucks

http://www.amazon.com/Bass-Mens-Buckingham-Classic-Buc/dp/B002LZTGI4

or something in a longwing

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/1901-wingman-longwing-derby/3466212?origin=category&BaseUrl=Oxfords

It's kind of hard to see, but the Cadence is larger/boxier (this one being 37mm diameter/5.9mm thick), and the Bulova just looks finer, dial markings, finishes, plus the brand.

Personally, I prefer the gold version
http://www.amazon.com/Bulova-97B100-Gold-Tone-Stainless-Leather/dp/B002LUEI9Q/ref=swr_wa_2_ses

Source: I got a couple of Cadence watches 2 for $54 shipped, e.g. Selfoss, feel I got about what I paid for, got the Bulova I mentioned.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00065FWR0/ref=pd_luc_rh_sbs_01_03_t_ttl_lh?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A white faced version is currently listed at 8.99. No prime shipping though.

Bass buckingham's are similar but I am having trouble finding them quickly. Also, Bass pasadena's are similar but are suede.