The Pontiac

Hong Kong, 2010.

Hong Kong was best experienced in its backstreets. On rare nights off, I’d dissolve into its dimly-lit alleyways, exploring and tasting the city in its greatest authenticity.It was there, as a hot and steamy Saturday night simmered into morning, that I saw my final stop for the evening. Tucked, as though shy, into an alley, I let the ticking blinks of neon lights draw me inside.

I walked in, braced for cheap drinks and all the makings of a good dive bar, only to find a piece of home. It was old America in its neon-lit, jukebox-blaring glory. A bit of tradition in the most unlikely of places.What was meant to be one last drink before bed became a world class unfolding of service, atmosphere, and spirit, not to mention of the best cocktails I’ve ever had (The Hobnail). It was no surprise to later found out that what I’d accidentally stumbled upon was a bar of renowned status, one of the world’s best, in fact. No wonder it inspired a coat of the same name and spirit years later. The Pontiac, though timeless in many ways, reimagines tradition by adding an element of the unexpected.

When one is open and adventurous, they find that inspiration is most potent when it is unexpected. The Pontiac, both the bar and coat, are for those open to being surprised. Not just by unlikely inspiration but what one can do with it. Adding value and a touch of edge, The Pontiac builds upon the traditional short sleeve chefs coat.

• Weight: 0.30 kg
• Mandarin Collar
• Double breasted with detachable stud buttons
• Thermometer/pen pocket on the sleeve
• Small CB label at top corner of sleeve pocket
• Respect Tradition Apron clip with CB stud at back neck.
• 3 quarter back birdseye mesh panel
• Short sleeves with V-notch detail at sleeve openings
• Constructed from 160 GSM lightweight polycotton twill