When it comes to good quality well made men’s shoes GoldFinger prides himself on knowing a thing or two so it came as a bit of a surprise to see a list of 17 of “the most prestigious men's luxury shoe brands” which contained only two names he recognised as belonging to a shoe maker.

On the list, rated by high net worth Americans and compiled by the Luxury Institute, were handbag makers Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tod's and Cole Haan, along with Italian tailor Ermenegildo Zegna and his compatriots Dolce & Gabbana and Armani.

GoldFinger’s own favourite, Church (classic understatement that last for generations and not a handbag in sight) made the cut as did the Swiss icon Bally.

But where were other giants of classic men’s footwear? No Barkers, no Cheaney and worst of all, no Lobb the St James’s based purveyor of hand-made shoes to the gentry and visitors to London from across the pond. Patrick Cox and Oliver Sweeney, much admired designers of high quality fashion footwear, were similarly absent.

According to the respondents to the survey, Ferragamo was the highest rated of the brands. Apparently, "Ferragamo consists of quality, fit and finish, materials, assembly, comfort and style. No effort is compromised in terms of satisfying the consumer."

A casual glance at the company’s website reveals that this brand, too, specialises in (wait for it) handbags and perfume. Men’s shoes listed include a “lace-up derby shoe in cherry or white patent” and a natty design featuring a lizard. Enough said.