Lobb is always the best !!
Depends on one's perspectives.
I disagree, but not entirely. Lobb is one of the best - I agree but not always the best! Too many variables to consider when it comes to RTW market - suitability of lasts with your feet, etc. Now we are blessed and spoilt with choices in the RTW market - the likes of John Lobb of course, Ed green, Cleverly, JM Weston, Aubercy, Corthay, Berluti, Saint Crispins, Stefano Bemer and many others! It's like saying Rolls Royce is always the best or Rolex is always the best! A fallacy at its best.
Bespoke is always the best if one could afford it. Even bespoke crockett jones cost much more than RTW Lobb or any other RTW for that matter - but not a fair comparison obviously! And, shoes from Japanese makers are really good quality - at par or at times better than the European rivals!