Good call here.
Yes, there is "custom". Then there is "bespoke".
I just received a new set of "custom" boots from a well-regarded Canadian manufacturer. They were made to my specifications, using multiple measurements of both feet. Although they appear similar to the same boot made for "off-the-shelf", they are just a tad different. Truth be told, they'd make you the exact same model if you wanted. Now "bespoke"...different tale (plus an additional $500.00)!!
This is taken from the website of Dayton Boot Co. They describe the whole thing better than I could:
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"Stock Boots:
Each stock boot is built to standardized specifications. Each particular style is made on a specific last and is available in the full size and width range of that particular last. When buying a stock boot, we are fitting you into a stock size.
Made To Order:
A made to order boot is an aesthetically customized stock boot. Here at Dayton we offer a variety of custom options that you can choose. These options range from different leather choices, adding and subtracting buckles and zippers and variations on the height of the boot. Each custom option has a set price, which will be calculated into the total cost of your boot......
Bespoke (custom fitting):
A bespoke boot starts with a unique last, which is built to your specific measurement. To have a bespoke boot or shoe built you have to come visit our factory show room. Our bespoke boots are built on a custom last which our experienced last maker creates once we have taken all the necessary measurements. The bespoke last is ideal for those with various orthopedic problems, or those who simply want perfect fitting footwear. The cost of a bespoke last is $500 plus the price of your boot. Once the bespoke last is created it is labeled as your own and we hang on to it until the next time you would like us to build you a pair of boots or shoes."
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Same thing applies to a suit. Even a "Custom Made, Hand-Tailored" suit is made from an existing pattern. A bespoke suit uses a pattern totally unique to that garment. Yes...it's also pricey.
So, I can see the logic of calling a Hart Steel razor perhaps "custom" in a sense when referring to the "Artisanal" (good point here..IS that an actual word??) models, but not really the standard Hart Steel offerings. I wouldn't even call them "made to order" for that matter. On the other hand, I am surely looking forward to the time when I can discuss the building of a truly "Custom/Bespoke/Made-to-Order/Artisanal" razor with Mr. Brian Brown....that's going to be quite a while though. He's pretty backed up.