Bad idea?

[ton312]

A longer zip would indeed look much better IMO.

I 100% agree. I’m just not sure I can scrap a mint, original Talon for a (likely) brass YKK purely for an extra couple inches. It would look better, no question.
I also don’t zip my jackets all too often, particularly this one as it’s super light and won’t do much good in any real cold.

 

[ton312]

Uhm the Windward in the comparison jacket is perfect, why bother with this one here at all? Just wear the Windward akd be done with the vintage jacket search.

That Windward is a grail for me! A winter piece. This one is more for Fall. It’s very light and fitted, almost like a suit jacket. Different occasion.

 

[HoosierDaddy]

I understand since I rarely wear my coats or jackets buttoned or zipped.

 

[Benny Holiday]

A bit late being on the other side of the planet but I'm for leaving it be. I think shortening it would 'unbalance' the look of the front especially with the pockets.

 

[zebedee]

I wouldn't change it. The longer length looks better, to me.

 

[handymike]

Whew, I was afraid you’d sold the Windward.

 

[ton312]

Whew, I was afraid you’d sold the Windward.

I won’t say it because it’s the kiss of death but…. I’ll sell everything else more than likely. But not that one.

 

[TREEMAN]

It’s a wonderful jacket as-is. Don’t fix what ain’t broke …

 

[zebedee]

It’s a wonderful jacket as-is. Don’t fix what ain’t broke …

I reckon that chopping it will result in short-term nostalgia and remorse immediately. It's a fantastic thing at the moment.

 

[feltfan]

I would vote for leaving it as-is. It looks just right, in a vintage style. Like a lot of vintage pieces, our aesthetic has changed. It may look long to you, but it's the right fit. Great jacket as-is.

 

[jonbuilder]

I would leave the length alone maybe consider having a belt made rather than re zipping

 

[Hobbes1]

If anything, the zipper could be a couple of inches longer. Not a deal breaker to my eye. Otherwise, I would not change anything. $0.02

 

[Will Zach]

Surgeries on old things (and people) usually don't have the best of outcomes. Leave as is.

 

[red devil]

Late to the party and glad you decided to leave it as is!

 

[ton312]

Returned today from Dena (impeccable work, as always) with a nylon canvas liner somewhat reminiscent of Stu’s flight nylon. Original length and zipper remain. I’m glad I didn’t chop it. In retrospect that would’ve been a mistake. We agreed that the Talon should see its own way out. Posting this pic purely for the leather porn of it all. Great way to return from a week on the beach!

 

[JMax]

Returned today from Dena (impeccable work, as always) with a nylon canvas liner somewhat reminiscent of Stu’s flight nylon. Original length and zipper remain. I’m glad I didn’t chop it. I’m retrospect that would’ve been a mistake. We agreed that the Talon should see its own way out. Posting this pic purely for the leather porn of it all. Great way to return from a week on the beach!
View attachment 349606

Awesome. Leather porn is right on. The lining looks amazing.

 

[Claybertrand]

Fresh Leather Porn!!!!!!!!!!

I don't know how I missed this thread but I'm glad you stayed OG with this jacket Tony.

Some people tend to confuse these jackets. I understand jackets like this to be Car Coats. I believe some may call them Surcoats which I don't know if that's accurate technically speaking...... but these jackets are not Half Belts. Not in my understanding of jacket....classification.

They DO tend to look--from everything about them--that they should rightfully be referred to as Half Belts, but since Half Belt already is the name of the shorter cousin to these jackets, these are called something else (Car Coats). I think that the zippers are deliberately shorter to allow for more comfort when sitting. Sorta like the 2 way zipper on a Moto jacket...... So adding a longer zipper would sorta nullify the design purpose of the shorter zipper.

To have shortened this Car Coat would have essentially been making the Car Coat into a Half Belt. My reasoning for supporting the JUST RELINE IT camp would have been simply, its a different kind of jacket. Love it for what it is especially since I know Tony has other options in the Half Belt category and a unique vintage piece like this should be celebrated for what it is.

It's an awesome looking jacket itself. Now its complete with the liner.

Bottom Line: You chose......WISELY.......

 

[Worf]

Man o man what a gorgeous jacket. I know you're in a conundrum, but it's a great one to have. Wish I had a similar problem.

Worf

 

[dudewuttheheck]

With that style, I would say leave as is. I personally prefer shorter jackets, but I think for that style it looks right as is.

 

[navetsea]

those are deep pockets, tablet computer seems to fit right in. travel keyboard inside the other