Panama Hat Thread

[Roninjedi]

So, it's my understanding that Panamahatsecuador on the Bay is Panama Bob's shop, right? Because I just bought a hat there. Any idea how many weeks until it should arrive in Texas. I'm very exited!

 

[WineGuy]

I'm not sure if that ebay store is PB, but if it is, expect him to ship within a few days, he's very fast.

 

[tortswon]

Top of the Line Panama Hats Direct- A Review

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. Cue the whistle...

The hat arrived today. It was a bit anticlimactic after all the waiting. It is the Panama Hats Direct Special Reserve, purchased on sale for $500 down from $580.

The good news is the hat body is really nice. I feel like I got my money's worth out of this deal based upon the body alone. On top of that, the block is great. I like the shape and the weave is consistent as is the color.

The bad... The liner in the hat is not merely unnecessary but a negative. I've seen lighter satin in coffins. The liner is heavier than in Art's hats. Fortunately, it is held on by spit. It looks like it was made to be yanked out and that is what I did. It came out with almost no pulling at all. Inside the hat, covered by the liner, is the pencil markings of some of the weavers and/or inspectors. I like that. It shows the handmade quality of the hat.

The ugly... The bow has to go immediately. How they can slap such a piece of garbage on a beautiful hat body is beyond me. It's like putting a Minnie Pearl outfit on Angelina Jolie. The bow is so terrible it is a complete distraction. After the summer is over, I think this baby is heading to Oregon for a top of the line Art Fawcett ribbon replacement.

Best, Sam

 

[Garrett]

Can we see pics?

 

[tortswon]

Garrett, I'll try to do that tomorrow. Camera problems. [huh] Best, Sam

 

[Garrett]

Sounds good. I definitely can see what you mean about one component throwing off a masterpiece. Luckily, we have Art!

 

[carter]

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. Cue the whistle...

The hat arrived today. It was a bit anticlimactic after all the waiting. It is the Panama Hats Direct Special Reserve, purchased on sale for $500 down from $580.

The good news is the hat body is really nice. I feel like I got my money's worth out of this deal based upon the body alone. On top of that, the block is great. I like the shape and the weave is consistent as is the color.

The bad... The liner in the hat is not merely unnecessary but a negative. I've seen lighter satin in coffins. The liner is heavier than in Art's hats. Fortunately, it is held on by spit. It looks like it was made to be yanked out and that is what I did. It came out with almost no pulling at all. Inside the hat, covered by the liner, is the pencil markings of some of the weavers and/or inspectors. I like that. It shows the handmade quality of the hat.

The ugly... The bow has to go immediately. How they can slap such a piece of garbage on a beautiful hat body is beyond me. It's like putting a Minnie Pearl outfit on Angelina Jolie. The bow is so terrible it is a complete distraction. After the summer is over, I think this baby is heading to Oregon for a top of the line Art Fawcett ribbon replacement.

Best, Sam

I have to comment that I concur with Sam's opinion of the PHD Special Reserve. The body is beautifully-woven, light as a feather, and well-blocked. The unnecessary liner, sweatbnd, and ribbon don't do justice to the body. Mine will be heading out west as well.

 

[Garrett]

Carter, might you have a few photos to post?

 

[HarpPlayerGene]

Thanks for the review, torts'.

Good to see you, Carter!

 

[carter]

Carter, might you have a few photos to post?

Garrett, I haven't taken any photos. Maybe tomorrow.

Gene, Nice to be here. Thanks.

 

[jwalls]

This summer's favorite

http://www.xoopit.com/s/20um7cjq58enelnvclio I know it looks like mug shot.

 

[Garrett]

Great shot!

 

[rlk]

Great shot!

:arated:
What is the source of the hat?

 

[tortswon]

Hey, Gene! Aren't you glad to see me too?:rage: Best, Sam

 

[indycop]

Hey, Gene! Aren't you glad to see me too?:rage: Best, Sam

He hasn't talked to me since I picked on his pith, now he may be pithed at me.. lol

 

[HarpPlayerGene]

You guys are too much! lol

 

[jonbuilder]

Pictures of the Stetson Panama I found last week at a consignment store

The brim developed waves once I started wearing the hats. I followed HPG method to straighten the brim with a stretcher to replicate my long oval head shape and weighing down the brim with books. I add some water and steam time. The first couple of times the wave returned but I think with persistence I am working the wave out of the brim

 

[billysmom]

Lucky you! Great find, lovely hat!

Sue

 

[ScottF]

The brim developed waves once I started wearing the hats. I followed HPG method to straighten the brim with a stretcher to replicate my long oval head shape and weighing down the brim with books. I add some water and steam time. The first couple of times the wave returned but I think with persistence I am working the wave out of the brim

That's a great find. Looking forward to seeing what you do with it.

 

[Dinerman]

Looks to be a '30s one going by the size tag.