The N1 deck jacket, a classic, and for most people (given their timeless cool, reasonable availability & pricing) a first piece of proper vintage to add to the wardrobe - I know my first N1 was amongst the first pieces I had. But not all N1s are created equal, the classic jacket was in use with the US Navy from early 1943 through to the early 60s, and this is a very hard to find example of the first pattern.
In early 1943 the Navy introduced a new line of redesigned clothing to help it meet its requirements across multiple theatres and areas of operations. Designated with a N (N-1, N-2 and N-3) standing for Navy, this range of clothing would improve upon previous designs, and prepare the navy for the amphibious warfare required in pacific and to land in occupied Europe. The N-1 deck jacket was a vast improvement on the previous blue jackets, retaining the thick jungle cloth, but changing to a khaki colour more suitable as camouflage. It returned to a zip closure, improved the fit, changed to a thick alpaca lining and included a draw string around the waist. For anyone who has owned both will tell you, these are much better jackets to wear in the cold.
This is the first pattern, most recognisable through the cuffs, which inside have the alpaca fur running almost up to the wrist. Sometime in early 1944 this would change and the fur would end where the knitted cuff is stitched in. This example was manufactured October 1943 contract, and certainly saw use during WW2. Its stenciled to the back to the USS Frank Knox, a Gearing Class destroyer, and remarkly that likely puts this jacket in Tokyo Bay on the day the Japanese formally surrendered.
Condition
This is well worn condition, though seems completely solid. The alpaca lining has thinned/matted somewhat and the jungle cloth has certainly faded. The zipper has been replaced with a period correct Conmar.
Size
- Tagged a 44
- Fits a modern large
- Pit to pit 24.5"
- Shoulder to shoulder 18"
- Shoulder to cuff 25"
- Collar to hem 27.5"