I'll throw my two cents in here because MY HAT HAS ARRIVED!
I don't have nice photos yet but hopefully by the weekend I'll be able to post a few. I did a Raiders poet in Deep Sable Beaver which is why it took a little longer than usual because they had to wait for a restock on that felt. I am the above mentioned 66cm hat (technically 65.75 cm). For context I am 6'5" tall and fairly athletic in build. I also like my hats to sit a little lower toward my ear and more secure than most folks I'd imagine. So when we were discussing crown height, I opted for a 5-inch tall crown. I know that it's too tall for true screen accuracy but it looks proportional to my face and build. And honestly, it's my hat. Not Indy's. It looks great on me. In another divergence, I opted for a subtle turn. It's definitely turned and looks like Raiders but it doesn't have that huge brim warp that some people like. Again, I think it looks better on me. It comes down to how it looks on you in my opinion. Sadly, Harrison Ford we ain't.
All that aside, this hat is amazing. The Deep Sable is gorgeous and light but dense. Michelle styled it perfectly. I've had it only for a few days so again I can't speak to general ruggedness but the stitching, construction, and felt are top notch so I have exactly 0 worries. Michelle and her team are a dream to work with, answering every question and concern quickly and thoroughly.
As far as the original question goes, the HJ is definitely now my Holy Grail. I sadly cannot compare it to a Penman (maybe one day), but I am 100% confident that it would be neck and neck. Some may question the price (I know my wife did
) but honestly, with HJ you definitely get the best.
Thank you Michelle!!!
Pictures to come soon.