Ben Hogan Apex HT II prototype?

[Titleist87]

Found this for a few dollars at a thrift store. Carbon steel, milled, with a fluted shaft probably at 36". I'd guess this was a mid 1980s putter when counterfeit golf clubs were close to non-existent. Since the material is carbon and milled, I have to speculate that this could be a prototype of the Hogan Apex HT II putter as it is identical to those that are stamped as such. I contacted Ken Giannini a few years ago to ask him if he could shed some light on this putter. I was told he worked for Hogan at the time. He wanted me to send him a few pictures, which I did but then never heard back. What are your thoughts?

 

Ebay link to an HT II.

http://www.ebay.com/...=p2047675.l2557

 

[TimV]

All I can say is it looks like it to me, but I fully admit that is strictly a opinion on appearance as I have no expertise in this.

[majic]

These were made by Rick Cooper. Many people had there hands on these. Some would " grow feet" The black ox finish of course would rust and was done by a guy in San Marcos.
Probably around 1990?

[Titleist87]

Tad, thank you for the information.