There was a good thread comparing Alden and AE:
http://askandyaboutclothes.com/forum/sho...n+edmonds+alden
No real consensus on why (or even if) Alden is actually better or just perceived as better.
BTW, looks like you'd be comparing these two:
http://www.allenedmonds.com/aeonline/pro...mp;occasion=189
http://www.aldenshoes.com/DrawOneShoe.asp?CategoryID=37
I have the perforated cap toe of version of the AE (which they no longer make) and it still looks really good after 6-7 years. In comparison, I have a 3 year old Johnston & Murphy wingtip that no longer holds a shine.