I actually do prefer the an aniline dye that does not penetrate the leather completely. This is more accurate to the vintage style boots from 30s, 40s, 50s. From a manufacturers point of view back then it was cheaper and quicker to do a semi dye; however, this process allows for the type of patina that you will see on the pair of julian made RRLs that were recently posted from Brass in Tokyo, and yes my himel as well. It just leaves a beautiful patina, IMO of couse, overtime. This is something I look for in nearly all of my leather purchases as of lately.
on a nerdier note, it also opens up wardrobe opportunities as the patina develops becasue a black boot can be passed off as a brown or black, etc. etc. etc. But the biggest deal to me is that the patina is just SOOOOO DAMMMMNNN BEAUTIFUL when it happens. Kind of like the indigo fading off a pair of jeans to relate it to something we can all appreciate.
* Chris's post shows, different strokes for different folks! that what makes it all so great.