Ted,

I don't know precisely what old patent leather was made of but I've been in this business for 35+ years and for most of that time "patent" leather has been a rough, poor quality leather with a plastic (vinyl?) top. It is one of the ways the leather trade recoups some of the cost in damaged or waste hides.

Perhaps if I had come along years ago, I might have had a better opinion of patent but I don't like it and I never use it. I've yet to meet a plasticized leather that "breathes." I have heard tell that the best way to deal with it is to put mineral oil on it...that alone is supposed to revitalize the shine.I suspect that refers to the plastic top patent.

Beyond that I plead ignorance. You're on your own with patent until a real expert comes along.