The legacy of TONAK, deeply rooted in the rich tradition of Czech hat-making, stretches back more than two centuries. Since its founding in 1799 in Nový Jičín, TONAK has upheld a deep respect for craftsmanship, combining time-tested techniques, carefully selected materials, and a love for the craft and handwork itself.
Despite technological progress, the majority of production remains firmly in the hands of skilled artisans – people whose expertise and precision cannot be replaced by machines.
In the historic premises of the Nový Jičín manufactory, each hat is created with patience, passion, and a profound understanding of the craft. Knowledge is passed down from generation to generation, preserving not only the traditional methods of production but also the spirit of authenticity that defines European hat-making excellence.
For over 225 years, TONAK has remained true to its mission: to create hats that are not only functional and elegant but also carry within them the heritage of those who lovingly make them. At TONAK, craftsmanship is not just a skill – it is a legacy of the strong tradition of hat-making in the Czech Republic.
The beginnings of hat-making in Nový Jičín date back to 1630, when the town council confirmed the articles of the local hatters’ guild. In 1799, a young journeyman, Jan Nepomuk Hückel, was admitted to the guild of Nový Jičín hatters and went on to establish a hat-making manufactory.
The quality of his products followed the high standard of traditional handcraft and soon reached not only the Austrian market but also many foreign markets. In 1865, Hückel introduced machinery into production and became the founder of mechanized factory manufacturing of felt hats.
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1630 – The hatters’ guild articles were confirmed by the town council in Nový Jičín.
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1799 – Jan Nepomuk Hückel establishes his hat-making manufactory. The year 1799 forever marks the history of TONAK, making it one of the oldest hat factories in the world.
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1865 – Hückel begins working with machines, becoming the founder of mechanized hat production. A steam engine is introduced into production.
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1869 – The business transforms into the public trading company J. Hückel and Sons. This name remains until its nationalization and the creation of TONAK n.p. (Továrna NA Klobouky – Hat Factory).
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2001 – TONAK acquires the headwear division of FEZKO. The products continued to uphold the previous high standard of craftsmanship and soon penetrated not only the Austrian market but also other international markets.
TONAK and its future outlook
As one of the leading European manufacturers of high-quality felt and wool hat bodies and finished hats, we constantly improve and streamline our production process. A primary part of our business lies in the B2B segment. We are an important and reliable supplier of our felt products worldwide and for many renowned global brands.
At the same time, we place great emphasis on end customers both in the Czech Republic and abroad. Our hats are shipped all over the world, and we continuously develop new products and styles.