I think I may have glimpsed the central core of this fascinating object just once this week after a few years, on and off, of trying, and wondered if any IIS members had attempted this elusive DSO type.
Wiki link here at
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoag's_Object
These galaxies are stunning and not the usual target perhaps. Hoag's object located in Serpens at RA 15 17 14 and Dec +21 35 08 has a core at around 16th magnitude. I attempted with a 12" Dob under pristine sky a few days ago and thought I saw the core.
For those interested, there is a lovely pdf detailing the location and charts for others at
http://www.faintfuzzies.com/Files/RingGalaxies%20v4.pdf
I hope this pricks your interest in these beautiful, faint galaxies.
Let me know how you get on and any tips etc..
Stu