Description
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”.
Manufactured in blue cotton, with a fur/fleece lining and brown fur collar, this RARE jacket is in AMAZING used condition! Though it does show some very slight wear, marks, and tiny holes from storage, it is in near MINT condition, with vibrant colors throughout. The exterior Map Pocket is also present. The snaps are of PRYM manufacture, and the zippers are made by both ZIPP and RAPID- all function 100% smoothly and correctly, and are all free of rust. The interior lining is made of fur/fleece and is 100% intact with no tears or damage. Though the manufacture label has faded, 100% this is of 1944/1945 manufacture, and would have had the following RB number assigned: 0/0915/0002
The size is approx a 2b (38R or so), so it would fit anyone with a medium build. The adler is also 100% original, and appears to be period applied. The only downfall on this jacket is a slight tear on one of the zippers (see photo…and some of the stitching is loose at the bottom of the central zip….otherwise…EASILY one of the NICEST I have owned of this type. A SUPERB combat-worn example…it would make a FANTASTIC addition to any collection or display!
|
