Vintage Lock and Co English Homburg Hat - Black Formal Fedora Size 7 1/8 to 7 1/4

This is a wonderful vintage homburg hat made by Lock & Co of London.  Lock & Co is considered to be the oldest hatmaker in the world, with roots dating back to 1676, established as a hat business in 1759.  They have had an illustrious history, catering to the elite of society, including politicians, celebrities and monarchy.

The hat is made in an excellent quality fur felt.  The brim is turned up at the edge and finished in grosgrain.  The crown has a black grosgrain band around its base with a bow at the left side.  The sweatband is stamped “Lock & Co Hatters St. James Street London”.  The lining is printed at the top with “Lock & Co Hatters St. James Street London Established 1759 Registered Trade Mark”.  It is estimated as a size 7 1/8, maybe a 7 1/4 - it measures 22 3/8” around the sweat band and 7 7/8” by 6 3/8” across the opening.  The brim measures 2” in width at the front and back, 1 3/4” at the sides and the crown measures 5 1/8” in height.  The hat is in very good condition - some moisture soiling to the lining, but otherwise very clean - a hat shop should be able to clean the lining with no problem.  In addition, there is a small kink in the band at the front (see photo), but this should be easy to correct.  The original owner’s initials are affixed to the interior - the style of the lettering is Edwardian, so this should give some clue as to age. It is a difficult hat to date precisely, could date anywhere from the 1910s to the 1950s, certainly no later.  This is a great looking homburg, not common due to its age and maker, sure to be noticed