I was born and raised in the UK, with Spitfires flying over my house, listening to family tell tales of RAF pilots during war and reading Biggles books, so it's no surprise that when someone says to me flying jacket, my first thought is of an Irvin. The timeless Irvin pattern was developed during the 30s, and by the outbreak of war in 1939 was the standard RAF flying jacket. As demand rocketed, the manufacturers were forced to use smaller and smaller pieces of hide and so the number of panels on the jackets would increase. This example with only two panels on the back is from early in the war, manufactured around 1939/40, the classic Battle of Britain pattern. It features lightning zips throughout and the cropped sheepskin typically of early war Irvins, later on the upcropped Devon fleece would appear.
This jacket has been in my collection for a long time, and she has been well cared for and loved. She's a great wearer when the weather get cold, and I'd love to see her find a great new home! The only think she needs is a good coat of Pecards Antique Leather Dressing once a year or so.
Condition
This is in good, solid, wearable condition. The leather is very soft and pliable, all the zips function correctly and the sheepskin lining is in great shape. It does show signs of honest wear. A small hole in one sleeve has been period repaired, and the chroming on the other sleeve has cracked (don't worry, this hasn't affected the stability or wearability). A couple of the teeth on the main zip have come off, but a stopped has been place beneath to ensure the pull doesn't come off, and it doesn't affect closure at all.
Size
- No label, but fits a modern med/large
- Pit to pit 22"
- Shoulder to shoulder 20"
- Shoulder to cuff 24"
- Collar to hem 24"