Mmmmmmmmm shoes.
I grew up in the village that Barker are made in (and also the original Kinky Boot Factory/Brooks, Dr Martins/Whites and others) so guess what make i usually buy?
If you want smart proper mens shoes then they have to be made in Northamptonshire, England.
The very best are John Lobb and Edward Green. I didn't pay for them myself but my John Lobbs retail at over $5000, that's the quality level they're at and level of bespoke they produce.
Barker, Churchs, Crocket and Jones, Trickers are all good base level makes that will last you a good long time though.
I think i have over 30 pairs at the moment.