Description
You are bidding on an EXCEPTIONALLY RARE example of WW2 German Luftwaffe Elek. Sommer Fliegerjacke (Electrically Heated Summer Pilot Jacket), as used by many German fighter pilots! This was the last version made of this type, circa 1945.
Development of protective flight uniforms began during WW1, and continued into WW2. What developed were a 1-piece flight suit (2 for winter 1 for summer), which in 1936 developed into an electrically heated flight suit. This suit consisted of a one-piece jacket/pant combination with separate gloves and socks. The flight suits contained built-in insulated heating elements which connected directly to the aircraft’s power supply. The early version was intended for cold weather flight, and was worn over the standard uniform. In July 1940, new regulations determined a 2-piece flight suit was to be manufactured. The 2-piece suit consisted of a separate jacket and pants, and was commonly referred to as the “channel jacket”.
This model is the LAST design made, and is the electrical summer version, produced around 1945.
Manufactured in dark brown leather and purple fleece collar, this jacket is in BEAUTIFUL used condition! It does show some wear and marks, however the leather is still very soft and supple, with no rips or tears! It features a hidden 6-button front, and the late type plastic sleeve zippers are marked “Ri-Ri“. Both zippers function correctly as they should, but are a bit stiff. All snaps are marked, “STOCKO“, and also function correctly. All electrical connections are present, which is rare, as these were usually removed post-war. This originally had a 2nd Pattern Adler attached to the right breast area (see photos). It was removed post-war, but the original will be included with the jacket.
Completely lined in Blue and Grey Rayon, it features adjustable draw stings at the waist. The Luftwaffe issue size tag is still present, and is marked as a size 1B (approx. size 36-38), so it would fit anyone with a small/medium build. As I am selling this as a collectible, and not as an every day wearable item, DO NOT ask me for specific measurements! These were only issued in 6 sizes, so pilots got what they were given. I am 5’9″ and 145 lbs., and have a 36″ chest. As I normally fit a size 1b, this fits perfectly, with a bit of room for a uniform or additional layer underneath. Please use your own judgment accordingly, based on the information I have provided. Internal storm cuffs are also still present with snaps also being made by “STOCKO“.
One of the RAREST late-style issued examples, I have shown this EXACT type of jacket in use in the last images. Would make a FANTASTIC addition to any collection or display!
