Both ribbons below the Optimo are Pre-WW2. The light one is a Borsalino which was the inspiration for the Optimo, the lowest is a Hückel.
The Optimo is a full-loop bow which is formed from the actual ribbon that wraps around the crown. The stitches are truly invisible. Note subtly visible stitches on both vintage hats and the ends of the loops that are simply a brief portion folded under. It is rare to find any vintage factory or modern examples with those features.
I'm not saying this is necessarily unique to Optimo, it is an example of what small scale, high price point and a concern for quality brings you.
Optimo Milan:
Having seen custom hatters at work as well as seeing the time constraints that the workers in high production factories (ex: hatco) are under it isn't much of a stretch to accept as fact that custom hatters are able to put out a product with superior finishing.
...and Baron has quite a few hats that top $1k.
But I have heard many a horror story about him.
I may have contributed to that, but truth be told-- I really like my Baron Hat! (the dark moss bowler I posted on St. Patty's Day. Great felt and finish, and good fit, decent price. Communication was difficult and it took a few tries for the right color and stiffness, but all in all I really can't speak ill, and I wear the thing a ton.
Can I be a party pooper here and suggest we go back to the topic of the thread? Don't hate me, it's just that we've (I'm including myself) taken it way too far from subject. Haven't seen a single hat here in a while, save for Dennis' milan.
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