Rare French 1920s Bowler, Derby ou Le Chapeau Melon

This is a magnificent 1920s men’s bowler (English), derby (American) or le chapeau melon as they say in France…which is exactly where this hat was created. 

This rare bowler comes from an estate near a resort area in upstate New York, and has never been on the market since it was first purchased during the Roaring Twenties. 

The hat was originally made in France.  It is in a larger size than most found from this era and the quality is absolutely breathtaking. This bowler is entirely hand sewn and finished. The firm, felted foundation is made of fine quality black wool. The crown is just under 5 inches or 12.is banded with silk grosgrain ribbon, and finished with a sharp, rectangular bow. The pristine interior is lined with white silk and faced with rich, supple leather. 

The regal Le Plumet logo is printed in black over genuine gold leaf. We know this is so because genuine gold was sometimes used in high end hatmaking. Gold is inert, and so it will not tarnish. This logo design simply glistens in the light…like the gold that it is! 

Le Plumet (The Plume) is the name of this French hatmaking company. Beneath the logo design, the word “Déposé Nos. 2492 & 3132” This refers to the inventory numbers on the hat blocks that were used to create this particular design. Also written on the interior logo are the words “Extra Quality” which gives proof that this wonderful gentleman's hat was also created with the British or Canadian market in mind. 

In absolutely splendid, near mint condition, this derby hat appears to have never been worn. It is truly a hat of most sublime quality.  If you plan to wear hats such as this, please remember that bowlers such as these are becoming quite rare, especially French made, and so condition matters a great deal for the long term value of this magnificent hat. 

There is a label on the interior that states the hat’s sizing. Often, when a beautiful hat such as this is found in this exemplary condition, I have found that it is because the sizing label is incorrect. This is true with this particular hat and quite likely the reason why it was never worn by its original owner. This is an exceedingly beautiful hat from the 1920s, and would make a glorious museum display.