Vintage Mens English Bowler Hat Derby Robert Davidson & Co London Large XL

This is an exceptional quality English bowler hat retailed by Premier Hat Shops of Ottawa, Canada and made by Robert Davidson & Co. of Old Bond Street, Piccadilly, London.  A Bowler is called a Derby in the United States.  The hat is made in a classic bowler/derby form with turned rim lined in grosgrain.  The crown has a black grosgrain ribbon around it base.  It is lined in gold toned satin that is printed in black with the Royal Coat of Arms and with “Manufactured by Robert Davidson & Co. Old Bond St, Piccadilly London Made in England for Premier Hat Shops Ltd. Ottawa, Canada”.  The sweatband is gold stamped “Davidson London”, and blind embossed “Felt Hat All Fur Made in England”.  The paper label states that the hat is a size 7 3/8, but this may be a British sizing, which is equivalent to a US size 7 1/2 - the opening measures 23 5/8” around the sweatband and 6 3/4” by 8 3/8” across the opening, so I think that it is a US 7 1/2 or XL.  It is in very good condition with no wear, tear or soiling - this has been very well cared for over the years.  The hat is difficult to date precisely, but I think that it dates to the 1920s.

This is a wonderful English bowler from a quality London hatter - hard to find in this large size!