The Czech, and previously the Czechoslovak, have a long history where berets are concerned. The town of Novi Jicin in the eastern part of the Czech Republic is the center of the Czech hat industry, dating back to the year 1630. The mechanized production of fur felt hats started in 1865 by hatter Johann Nepomuk Hückel, who two years later started the company J. Hückel & Sons. This name was kept until the private company was nationalized into a state owned enterprise and TONAK was born. These days TONAK is one of the world's largest manufacturers of headwear and berets still take a prominent role in TONAK's assortment.
Why the beret became such a popular headgear among the Czechs and Slovaks is unknown to me, but evidence of the beret's popularity in former Czechoslovakia is evident in many movies and photo-libraries and of course the beret was made immortal thanks to children's animation series Pat and Mat.
South Pacific Berets stocks a number of Czech berets; the 28cm 'UltraBasque', a beautiful beret in 100% wool, one size fits all in a variety of grey and brown shades. These berets are unlined and make excellent berets for warmer weather.
The 'Service Star' is a completely different beret; fitted with a military style rim and three airvents, without the txortena (the "fuse" in the center of the beret) and with a tartan checked lining. This beret has a 28.5cm diameter and is presently only available in size 60.
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Un-lined Radiovka 235 in Black
a Service Star
The Service Star is a kind of hybrid beret; the size of a txapeldun or large Basque beret in 11.5" , while having a military style <outside> rim and three air vents on the side. A seriously comfortable and pleasant beret to wear. $46.50 | a Rádiovka The rádiovka is the traditional Czech beret (made immortally famous by Pat & Mat); the smallest diameter beret (at 24cm diameter) we stock at South Pacific Berets and a personal favourite. The rádiovka's have a tartan satin lining and a pleasantly thin, soft headband. Available in sizes 56, 58 and 60 (but still stretchable) at $35.- A real treat!
Radiovka's in 235mm. Unlined, pure wool and available in Navy, Brown and Red. Some of the great little berets available at only $30.00
Radiovka's in 265mm. Unlined, 100% pure wool and available in Camel, Green, Orange and White. Great little berets and only $30.00
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