Trailer Life Directory Online  Feb. 3, 2005

Óptimo Custom Hatworks is located in the heart of the historic mining town of Old Bisbee, in the mountains of South Eastern Arizona.  All the tools and equipment are originals from the 1880's Victorian period.  Óptimo offers original designs in both contemporary and period fashions, all made by hand.  Along with cleaning and re-blocking, S. Grant Sergot and his staff also are conservators in the restoration of important antique hats, including those made of straw and fur-felt.  A specialty of Óptimo Custom Hatworks is the hand-woven straw Panama hat from Ecuador, custom hand-formed and finished in the shop.  These supple and durable hats can be handed down as heirloom sculpture.  They are graded in ascending order of quality and cost.  Only a few weavers still exist who can weave the best quality.  Sergot will help you select a design to match your physique, character and personallity.  Prices start at $125.

Accessibility Note: The shop is an atelier (salon studio), open for educational tours.  It is suggested that you call for a fitting or an appointment to take the tour.