Boy. Barney's. that is a story. i think the father died before the kids lost the store. Someone ought to write a book about that story. i remeber when it happened.
I'm more loyal to D. Cenci (who always has a sale). My wife and I spent a lot on knits, outerwear and accessories over the years at D. Cenci. By a coincidence we were in Rome, and D. Cenci, the man, was working the Rome store while he was there on business. It was during the legally regulated July sale period, and Mr. Cenci extended an additional discount ("sconto"). That kind of thing goes a long way towards maintaining loyalty. That said, I haven't bought much in the last few sales: the prices, remain very, very high, even after their deep discount. How many 4 ply cashmere sweaters can a man own?
Don't answer that.
Exactly who would actually keep H. Herzfeld ("never has a sale") going? The owner/heir is relatively young, but I can't see it going through several more lease renewals. Who in their right mind would go into this business these days? These kinds of shops are gradually disappearing in Europe as well. When I do come across them, they're usually selling the same Intl. branded shlock.
My understanding is that Eric Clapton bailed out Cordings, but I don't think H. Herzfeld has a white knight, waiting on the sidelines.
Herzfeld is what it is. They moved to 52nd Street a few years ago. They make it or not. I will check them out this season. They always seemed to have unique stuff. Let Mr. Market sort it out.
I've been to the Milan and Rome D. Cenci. Yes, the stock is different in NYC. There is considerable overlap, but the NY range is smaller, more carefully selected I think.
I like H. Herzfeld and it is a wonder that they do manage to survive. I think many people no longer appreciate what they have to offer in terms of furnishings. Truthfully, I do not know how most men in NYC or the tri state area choose their clothes. How do you impress on someone that a nice Herzfeld tie is a better investment than a trendy, luxe brand?