Continuing my efforts to offer some of the more unusual Vietnam camo patterns. This is known in collection circles as 'invisible'. It's essentially a Vietnamese made version of the US ERDL pattern introduced around 1965 and printed onto a heavy sateen cotton. When washed this pattern was know the fade pretty quickly, and gained it's 'invisible' nickname. Whilst this pattern would be used pretty widely, it's the cut of this shirt which is of most interest. This particular style garment features two bellows out covered button chest pockets, and shoulder reinforcements to the front only. This rare cut was used by ARVN Rangers and their US advisors, and also appeared in the much desired 'bulletproof' pattern. This particular example includes a faded TTSXQT stamp (Trung Tâm Sàn Xuât Quân Trang = Military Equipment's Manufacture Center), dated March 1965, and looks to be an A5. There is the shadow of a circular patch on the sleeve.
These shirts are very rare, and a valuable addition to any Vietnam camo collection.
Condition
This is well used, and has a modification to the cuffs to lengthen them slightly, but otherwise is solid. There is no damage, but fading and marks throughout.
Size
- Tagged an A5, fits a modern medium
- Pit to pit 21"
- Shoulder to shoulder 19.5"
- Shoulder to cuff 24.5"
- Collar to hem 29"