Vintage English Bowler Hat J Richmond London Derby Size 7

This is a very nice quality vintage English bowler hat made by J Richmond of London for Max Beauvais of Montreal.  A bowler is called a derby in the United States.  This vintage English bowler is made in a classic form with turned rim lined in grosgrain.  The crown has a black grosgrain ribbon around it base.  It is lined in cream coloured satin that is printed in black with the Royal Coat of Arms and with “By Special Appointment J. Richmond & Co. London Made in England Expressly For Max Beauvais Limited 385 St James Street W Montreal”.  Max Beauvais was a men’s haberdashery founded in 1898 and which remained in business at least into the 1950s.  I assume that the Royal Coat of Arms signifies that Richmond held a Royal Warrant.  The sweatband is stamped “Richmond & Co. London Finest Quality”.  The sweatband also has its original size label affixed to it, which reads “Size 7”.  The opening measures 22” around the sweatband and 6 3/8” by 7 7/8” across the opening, more of an oblong opening than usual.  This vintage English bowler hat is in very good condition with no wear, tear or soiling except for a small yellowish spot to the lining - otherwise, this has been very well cared for over the years.  This vintage English bowler is difficult to date precisely, but I think that it dates to the 1920s

This is a wonderful vintage English bowler hat from a quality London hatter - very natty!