Aero Highwayman Love and Loss

[Scrappy]

This is my first time posting and I don't think I could have chosen a better place to do research. It seems that TFL members, like me, want to make the most informed decision before making a relatively significant clothing purchase. Since I stumbled across this site, I have been trolling pages to help guide me in purchasing my next leather jacket and have been astounded by the wealth of knowledge! That being said, I never intended to buy another leather jacket upon purchasing my Aero Highwayman nine years ago. It was lust at first sight and I envisioned a monogamous relationship with my new found love. I chose the FQHH in cordovan, size 42, because I knew she would last for years and the color would allow me to wear her with either jeans and t-shirt or slacks, dress shirt and tie. The patina she developed was simply beautiful and drew many a compliment. Although not the warmest jacket to battle the fierce Chicago winters when I first bought her, she was perfect for the more moderate New York weather where we currently reside.

Unfortunately, time has been kinder to her than to me. She became more supple and developed character while maintaining classic beauty and strength. Whereas I became, well, let's just say older and smaller. Thus the tragic decision to find a new jacket. I am bewitched by the Aero Highwayman and will probably order another one in a smaller size. Aero makes a fantastic jacket and their customer service is outstanding. When I told them my tale of woe in hopes that they could alter my jacket, they informed me that the aesthetic of the jacket would be ruined were they to attempt altering it. To my surprise they allow trade-ins for new purchases which is something I am considering. My questions to all are:

1) Has anybody had experience trading in their Aero jacket ?
2) Although 9 years old, my jacket is in great shape, so what would be a reasonable asking price?

Once I figure out how, I can post pics.

 

[HoosierDaddy]

My first Aero HH jacket (around 12 yrs ago)was a Highwayman. I still have it and enjoy it. It is a comfortable style that's hard to beat. Usually Aero will give you 1/2 of the original cost.
A price for selling it outright would depend on condition. If nice..or with great character..I would say $400 and up. However..photos would be necessary to better determine an accurate dollar amount.
HD

 

[schitzo]

if it's in good nick then considering the price point you bought it at, I predict you'll be able to comfortably recoup more than 2 thirds of what you paid for it by selling it to another yank - which will keep down shipping costs. Start with the classifieds here, then to ebay and if still no sale send back to aero for a trade in. Good luck!

 

[ButteMT61]

Why not consider asking a pro (Johnson leathers?) if they can alter it first? Nine years of wear is tough to lose IMO.
I believe the 1/2 price trade in is only if you bought from Aero - which it sounds like you did - but may vary on age/condition. I'd think selling here or eBay would get more return for your new jacket if you go that route.
Please post pics!

 

[Capesofwrath]

I got a good price on a trade in, and they sold it for almost what I paid for it new. Why not send some pictures and ask them what they'll give you against a new one? A lot depends on the condition.

 

[Fanch]

The biggest negative in trading in to Aero is the shipping cost. I suspect you would do better by listing on the classified section on the FL or selling on eBay. However pictures are a must, as well as accurate measurements.

 

[siddhartha]

One of my first Aero jackets is a Highwayman. Still have it, still love it. It's a bit big on me now, but it's not that big a deal on a non-fitted jacket, so I'm keeping it. Also, I really, really like the horsehide that was used back then, too. That said, I trust Holly and Ken at Aero to give sound advice, and I'd be reluctant to alter it, thus going down a "one-way street" on this jacket. If they offer a reasonable trade-in, I'd do it

 

[Scrappy]

Yes, sadly altering does not seem to be an option. I called and spoke to the tailor at Thurston Bros. Leather, who advised against altering the jacket for the very reason given by Holly at Aero. As much as I hate to depart with my beloved Highwayman with 9 years of memories and character (nod to ButteMT61), it seems to make sense to sell her and purchase a better fit. Even though I was certain I would simply buy another Highwayman, I'm now tempted by the 1930s Halfbelt, Crop Duster, and Dustbowl. But first, I guess I should start the selling process. Thanks to all for the sound advice.

 

[Scrappy]

I've tried to post pictures that I uploaded but have been unsuccessful. I have two theories: 1) Because I lack the computer skills or 2) My posting permission states "You do not have permission to post attachments." How does one get permission?

 

[ButteMT61]

Scrappy, hope this helps. Sorry you gotta sell, but hoping you get a great replacement. Lots of good choices today!

 

[Cyber Lip]

you guys are getting 'smaller' with age? What's your secret!

 

[Scrappy]

Here are the pics of the jacket that everybody wisely advised me to post. I used ButteMT61 technical advice and hope I was successful. Thanks!

 

[ButteMT61]

Well done. But the good news is that it doesn't look too worn in, so you should get a good price and really, to get a new one back to that level shouldn't take long if you wear it!
Good luck. It's a great looking jacket - and cool label too.

 

[Scrappy]

if it's in good nick then considering the price point you bought it at, I predict you'll be able to comfortably recoup more than 2 thirds of what you paid for it by selling it to another yank - which will keep down shipping costs. Start with the classifieds here, then to ebay and if still no sale send back to aero for a trade in. Good luck!

Great advice which I will humbly accept. I didn't even think about shipping costs. Doh!

 

[Scrappy]

Well done. But the good news is that it doesn't look too worn in, so you should get a good price and really, to get a new one back to that level shouldn't take long if you wear it!
Good luck. It's a great looking jacket - and cool label too.

Thanks and I appreciate the wisdom you have shared to me and many a newbie. Once I sell it, I will have seed money for my next "one and only".

 

[ButteMT61]

Thanks and I appreciate the wisdom you have shared to me and many a newbie. Once I sell it, I will have seed money for my next "one and only".

I think given it's size, condition, etc it's a good resale. Best of luck on the new one. Give lots of thought to the new designs. See some of the pics in the Thurston thread for inspiration. Given your new size, I'd say the world is wide open to you - but look at other makers too. I don't know if we've ever had so many great choices to drool over.

 

[GriffDeLaGriff]

I own 3 Aeros, but If I ever outgrew my Highwayman I would get anotherone just like it. I would get a new Highwayman if I were you, its the perfect goto jacket!

Mine looks like its been through a world war compared to yours

 

[schitzo]

looks to me to be in great shape. If it was mine I'd want at least £400 for it + the shipping.

But I suspect you may be a little bit less ambitious than me, in which case I can foresee a quick sale here ending with a happy buyer and a happy seller.

Next step is put in the classifieds here (if you haven't already) then if nobody bites list in on ebay - but be sure to mention in your listing that you may end the auction at any time because it's listed elsewhere. Then if an ebayer does want it try your best to do a private deal (still with paypal), in order to avoid the exorbitant ebay fees - which is a saving that you can share with your buyer

 

[Boyo]

Het scrappy, has there ever been any "bleeding" or color transfer with this jacket? Cordovan has a "reputation" for sometimes doing this. I recently acquired a cordovan jacket myself, and so far I have NOT noticed that happening. Curious about your experience.

 

[schitzo]

Het scrappy, has there ever been any "bleeding" or color transfer with this jacket? Cordovan has a "reputation" for sometimes doing this. I recently acquired a cordovan jacket myself, and so far I have noticed that happening. Curious about your experience.

Boyo, you mean you have NOT noticed that happening, right?