Club Obi Wan

I'm passing through London at the end of this month and planned for an overnight in Swanley Kent, at a B&B about a mile from Wested.

Any tips or suggestions when looking at jackets? (I really wanted to see a few Heroes, but understand they don't keep them in stock.)

I have an old Cooper that I wear all the time that's nice, and just ordered a S&J ribby merino Raiders. I thought a Wested would round me out nicely but wanted to see as much as I could in person. Plus, come on, I probably won't have the chance to visit the store in person like this again.

On the way there, I'm going to stop in and see the Herbert Johnson hats at Swaine Adeney Brigg, but from what I've read here I think I might be disappointed. That doesn't matter so much though because I have my new Penman waiting for me when I get home, which I am betting is going to be the MVP of my collection.

Thanks for any comments or suggestions.

KZ

One thing, Peter doesn't work in the shop every day now. Usually Saturday (they are open till one Saturdays), and one or two other days.

It is worth talking to Rebecca to see when he is in, it would be a shame to make a special visit and not see him.

Kt Templar wrote:One thing, Peter doesn't work in the shop every day now. Usually Saturday (they are open till one Saturdays), and one or two other days.

It is worth talking to Rebecca to see when he is in, it would be a shame to make a special visit and not see him.

That's very good advice, I will do that. I was hoping to meet him for sure.

Thanks!

Check to see if Peter's PC is working while you're there.

Looks like he'll be in the day I plan to visit, so that is great.

Today I visited Wested and met everyone, Peter himself helped me with a jacket. Based on how well their standard 44 Raiders fit, I ordered one in shrunken lamb with a few tweaks to look more like the Hero but keep the great fit of the standard. It was pretty nice to see things in person and ask questions face to face.

Since I was there I grabbed up some pants, a shirt, and a new (old) bag. It was a great experience for me and I think Peter Botwright is a class act. He even dropped me off at the local train station. It was cool to chat with him and the nice ladies in the shop, and I recommend dropping in to anyone that gets a chance.

My only complaint is having to pay the UK VAT of 20%. Since I'm American, the taxation without representation thing still stings a bit.

Also of note, the day before I went to Swaine Adeny Briggs to see the HJ Poet. I tried one on and it looked great, but it was a bit overpriced in my opinion. They did say they could provide the VAT refund from, but even so I'd rather have a Penman for my money.

Regards,
KZ

I think you can claim back the VAT at the airport, see if you can find anything out online and keep your receipts, IIRC there is a counter at the airport you can put in a claim.

However, I did the same in the US and never saw a penny!

Kt Templar wrote:I think you can claim back the VAT at the airport, see if you can find anything out online and keep your receipts, IIRC there is a counter at the airport you can put in a claim.

However, I did the same in the US and never saw a penny!

I tried, but it seems the vendor has to register and provide the vat form. No issue, the experience was worth it I think.

KZ