Hello - Query Ref. Stratoliner

[PhilS]

I am new to the forum. I have long wanted to be a hat guy, but my wife says hats tend to have a pin-head affect on me. (I am a 7 3/8 with an oval face so I think she is right about many of the styles that are most easily found today). On the other hand, I am 50 now, so I figure I can wear whatever I want.

I have been looking around and it appears that the style I like is what is found in the Stetson Stratoliner and Open Road models. I haven't mastered the nomenclature, but it appears to be called the C-Crown, with narrow band (4 ligne?) and a pronounced downward slope from front to back. I am sure I would look fine in this hat -- I am sure EVERYONE looks good in this sort of hat.

I just lost a bid-war on eBay for a Stratoliner. It looks like 7 3/8 is a tough vintage size to find. I was wondering if anyone could tell me if there are other places to find one, what the going range is for them, and whether any modern-made hat (like the ones sold on the forum's sister site) is a reasonable alternative to finding a vintage hat.

Thanks and hello to all. Phil

 

[univibe88]

I don't know your price range, but a custom hat from someone like our own Art Fawcett might be the way to go. It will be guaranteed to fit perfectly, whereas searching for the right fit via vintage models can be an adventure (a fun adventure for some, but that is another discussion.) A custom can be made to look exactly like a vintage Stratoliner, or it you can tweak the dimensions any way your heart desires.

 

[RBH]

Welcome to the Lounge and you have great taste!
As far as a new hat, check out the Akubra Campdraft. Great hat for the money.

 

[univibe88]

Great recommendation

 

[PhilS]

Custom Range

Thanks for the welcome!

I like the idea of tracking down a vintage hat, but on the other hand I am now in the mood to have it now. What is the price range for a replicated Stratoliner?