ALL REPRO R.A.F. Irvin type jackets

[aswatland]

It may be the way you've photographed it but it appears that taper is quite extreme compared to originals. It appears to form a straight line taper from the elbow, when of course the whole arm is a more complex shape.

I must say I agree with you Andrew. I have not seen such an extreme taper on originals either.

 

[John Lever]

It was altered from a parallel and so is a slight compromise.

 

[John Lever]

Bought this today

The arms on this one are truly massive, the outer is soft and the wool curly and shiny. I know it's slightly big on me but that's the way I like my jackets.
They just don't make 'em like this any more.

 

[aswatland]

Impressive John. I like the chestnut finish, which reminds me of mid war Wareings jackets and the curly fleece. It looks like its early '90s production. The fit is spot on IMO. I'm not a fan of Irvins which are a snug fit.

 

[John Lever]

Andrew it was made in 1993, the seller had it from new.

 

[PADDY]

Looking good John.

That 'old chestnut' looks lovely on you. Nice touch with the A-1 as an undergarment!!

 

[John Lever]

I wondered who would spot that. They compliment each other very well.
Thanks Paddy

 

[John Lever]

Another even better jacket that's now for sale -

 

[aswatland]

Apart from the obvious superb condition of this early Merino ELC Irvin why is it superior to the size 44 one above?

 

[John Lever]

Hi Andrew,
It has more shine in the wool which also has a slightly better colour. The outer also has more shine.
As it's never been worn it's brand new so it's like a new conker.

 

[aswatland]

Hi Andrew,
It has more shine in the wool which also has a slightly better colour. The outer also has more shine.
As it's never been worn it's brand new so it's like a new conker.

John, is this not a subjective view? I guess if you like a very shiny Irvin this is the one for you. However most originals were not this shiny and the colour of the fleece varied enormously. I'm not sure about the better fleece colour-its all a matter of personal preference.

 

[John Lever]

John, is this not a subjective view? I guess if you like a very shiny Irvin this is the one for you. However most originals were not this shiny and the colour of the fleece varied enormously. I'm not sure about the better fleece colour-its all a matter of personal preference.

Of course it's subjective .
The problem is have you ever seen a jacket fresh from the factory in 1941 ?

 

[aswatland]

Of course it's subjective .
The problem is have you ever seen a jacket fresh from the factory in 1941 ?

Have you? Actually I have several near mint Irvins and the areas of sheepskin which have been out of the light, such as behind the sleeve zips, give one a very good impression of the factory finish. Here are some pictures of one such jacket-no shiny finish and the exposed outer leather is identical to that hidden under the sleeve zips.

 

[John Lever]

It does have some shine though Andrew.
The point about my question is that things change over time whether exposed to light or not.
You liked my jacket originally why the sudden change of heart ?

 

[aswatland]

It does have some shine though Andrew.
The point about my question is that things change over time whether exposed to light or not.
You liked my jacket originally why the sudden change of heart ?

I still like your jacket as a repro but prefer originals and always have done.

 

[Stearmen]

Nice Shade

I like both the Eastman jackets, just the right shade of brown for me! Unless you are doing Living History, the exact shade is not as important as what your eye likes. I know they say theirs are exact copies, but go to the discussions on reproduction A2s and you will see that no reproduction will please the experts! Wear what you like, just wish I had found the 44 at a price I could afford!

 

[hamburg]

New Irvin user

Proud new owner of a used Eastman '42 jacket is reporting for duty.

I’ve been reading Irvin threads here on FL for some time now and I have to say I have learned a lot. Still I have a few questions.
Is it possible to find out when was my jacket made? From your pictures all your jackets have a shiny look but mine doesn’t. Should I treat it with something?

Thank you

Rudi

 

[Spitfire]

Welcome to the club, Hamburg - and congrats with your very nice Irvin.
I wouldn't use anything on it for a long time - and if you do, add some Pecard.

 

[aswatland]

Welcomed to the forum Hamburg. Your ELC 42 pattern Irvin was most likely made within the last five years. Wear it in good health.

 

[hamburg]

Thank you both for your kind replies.