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ORIGINAL WW2 ITEM
Whilst looking into these a discovered a few aspects of interest
Pre War Flying Jackets were made of Single Cow hide ( hence back a single piece of Leather / single panel back )
Costly and Wasteful
Early War items like one offered has 2 Panel back ( vertical join )
I found one offered on ebay that stated it was a 1936 Irvine which was identical with 2 Panel Back - minimal info on their listing so I dont know if date was on inner label ??
As War went on there were 4 panel backs and I have had some Jackets that look like a Patchwork using up all the scraps to prevent wastage .
Also whilst Irvine is the original manufactuer with time other firms were given contract so there are often some minor pattern differences.
WW2 RAF Irvine Sheepskin Flying Jacket
AGE RELATED WEAR AS SHOWN
Early War / Battle of Britain era 2 Panel Back Sheepskin Flying Jacket
Some surface wear to Leather but no rips or tears .
Grained leather has surface wear as shown the shiny surface scuffed off in areas by look of it .
Worst areas appear to be left arm / shoulder area and back ( mostly left side )
No idea if related to getting into Aircraft / Seat ?
Pretty much all over wear to surface but Leather still supple.
HOWEVER - when collar lifted it is like new - the Leather is soft and fresh like it was 85 years ago !
Ive seen others with a black elastic strap under collar ? has metal eyelets for strap - NO STRAP.
Under arm has triangular vent panel with 8 metal vents.
Neck retains strap and double D metal loops
Small repair required at top of zip at join with collar - a few stitches needed ( seam stitch wear - not tear )
Main zip works - DOT Zipper ( DOT Made in England )
NEEDS STOPPER OR A FEW STITCHES AT TOP OF ZIP - left side .
Has short Leather tab on zipper
The Cuff zips both work - both Brass zip tabs marked FLASH
Just noticed some wear to left arm cuff - Fur Trim MISSING to inner edge ( may not notice when worn )
A bit of edging coming loose and needs a couple of stitches .
Retains waist belt and buckle - a little wear from use .
Some wear to Sheepskin around Collar , small bald patch on lower lapel part right side .
Some wear / bald patches at leading edge and top edge .
Wear at cuffs and base edge ( fur ) as shown.
Inner Sheepskin in lovely soft order - more Ginger colour - I assume original tone where outer exposed has faded / discoloued with use / age .
Inner retains chain coat hanging - riveted through to rear .
Unfortunately NO LABEL .
SIZE APPROX
Decent size - Im fairly average Medium and a touch too big for me .
Chest Armpit to pit 22 in. approx .
Sides below 23 in. across.
Base edge 23.5 in.
24 in. top of zip to base
26 in. base to chain hanger at neck
21 in. across shouler seam .
26 in. arm
Obviously seen some action
Age related wear from use
May need a few minor repairs ( stitches )- edge trim etc
No rips or tears
Great looking original Flying Jacket
Please ask for further photos if required prior to bidding
I have tried to cover all faults
Approx 85 years old so condition as you would expect
NOT NEW OR MINT