You're right about the Stratoliner and the Alessandria, but look at the price differentials between them and the CD's. I think this is a very clear example of products selling on a name-recognition basis as opposed to a quality one. Whenever I see a Stetson or Borsalino these days I first think "Akubra" and then "Mike at Northwest Hats," who can make you pretty much anything you want starting at $179.00. As you get into this you'll eventually want to try a custom job, and, man, that first one's a revelation. I must asy that I wish I'd have known what you do when I first got into this. I'd have saved enough for a top-of-the-line custom.
Throw some shrimp in the barbie, I'm on my way!
When I ordered my Moonstone Fed IV at the end of August Hats Direct/The Hattery shipped it the next day, but it sat in Australia for two extra days because Australia Post doesn't do business on Saturdays and/or Sundays. Lesson learned - place your order early in the week so it'll leave Australia before the weekend.
When it arrived in Los Angeles it sat (presumably in customs) for two or three days, but when it started moving again it went through three different U.S.P.S. locations and still made it to our front porch in six hours.
I hope you like it right out of the box. I doubt there are very many of that model in the good ol' USA. I myself enjoy having something somewhat unique. Heck, maybe that is why I wear fedoras?? Oh my I think I am having a break through! It is all so much clearer now.
John Lofgren Monkey Boots Shinki Horsebuttt - $1,136 The classic monkey boot silhouette in an incredibly rich Shinki russet horse leather. 
Grant Stone Diesel Boot Dark Olive Chromexcel - $395 Goodyear welted, Horween Chromexcel, classic good looks. 
Schott 568 Vandals Jacket - $1,250 The classic Perfecto motorcycle jacket, in a very special limited-edition Schott double rider style.
Warby Parkers shades?
