Eastman B6 Rough Wear

[dmdmorris]

I just ordered a B6 Eastman Rough Wear from History Preservation. Charlie was most helpful. I normally wear a 42" jacket but he suggested that because these are cut a bit narrow I should definitely go one size up.

Would love to see and hear from others who have purchased this jacket.

Thanks in advance for your responses.

 

[archbury918]

I thought you were decided upon the Aero yesterday?

 

[leopardstyle]

I don't know. It's a totally different maker and discussion in a way, but look at the posts on Cole's recent order with Aero. Cole told them he wanted a trim fitting jacket and they told him since the Aero 38 contract fits trim that he should go up a size. He got the jacket and tried to like it, but it was just just too blousy and he had to return it. Bear in mind that I like more tailor fitted jackets, but I can't understand always erring on the side of ordering something that fits like a bag. Just my opinion.

 

[archbury918]

I found this older thread from another forum many of us here also belong to. I don't know if it'll work.

http://www.vintageleatherjackets.org/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=11150

 

[archbury918]

A-2's are a different animal as to fit than a shearling. There were many contracts and makers that jackets did have a noticeable variance.
I have yet to do a custom order. Have always selected their standard jackets regardless of who it was.

The one problem I have had with Eastman's jackets is that they have altered their patterns over the years and have never been able to assume one year will fit the same as last.

 

[leopardstyle]

On the difference between A-2's and B6's, youre right, my bad.

 

[dmdmorris]

I thought you were decided upon the Aero yesterday?

You are correct, I was but after some thought and research I decided on the Eastman. I like a loose fitting jacket and from what I have been able to ascertain they use a slightly thinner pile of shearling (if that is the correct technical term) which I understand will give a bit more. I also like, IMHO, the appearance a tiny bit better. Don't get me wrong, the Aero is a beautiful jacket and and it was a very very tough decision. The other thing that I think helped push me over to the Eastman side was that I could talk to Charlie at length in the U.S. (he is their local U.S. stockist) and he answered a ton of my questions. I also like loose fitting jackets, I hate tight fitting jackets, so for me a little big is better than too tight. But I do have an Aero Hercules Heavy Front FQHH on order and it should be arriving soon.

 

[dmdmorris]

Leopardstyle, IMO Cole's experience is no different than other manufacturers when it comes to a B6. The B6 from what I've been told by almost every manufacturer is a trim fitting jacket, so unless you really know you want a trim tight fitting jacket and know your chest and waist size be careful. I am 5'7" weigh 155 to 160lbs (depends on scale), my chest is a 42 and my waist is a 34. I was told that an Eastman 42 is going to fit like a 40 and should go up to a 44, in fact almost all of their customers size up one size. Don't know what else to say.

 

[archbury918]

By all means, go with what will make you happy.
All of us have different tastes, hence the luxury of different current makers to choose from. I too loved the contrasting look of the Eastman. It's just after time, I found I liked the mono tone of the Aero more.
I also agree that having a good relationship with the seller is key. You're not dropping pocket change here. Add shipping and import fees, it all comes into play.
I just wouldn't deal with Charlie again personally. I go direct to Gary in the UK. But I'm going off topic and getting into a personal issue.
Welcome to the addiction!!! Now go sign onto the Vintage Leather Jacket forum.

 

[dmdmorris]

My bad, thought you were talking about a B6. I need to pay attention!

 

[dmdmorris]

By all means, go with what will make you happy.
All of us have different tastes, hence the luxury of different current makers to choose from. I too loved the contrasting look of the Eastman. It's just after time, I found I liked the mono tone of the Aero more.
I also agree that having a good relationship with the seller is key. You're not dropping pocket change here. Add shipping and import fees, it all comes into play.
I just wouldn't deal with Charlie again personally. I go direct to Gary in the UK. But I'm going off topic and getting into a personal issue.
Welcome to the addiction!!! Now go sign onto the Vintage Leather Jacket forum.

If you could (feel comfortable) can you tell me what happened with Charlie? You can PM if you feel more comfortable, not asking out of spite, but because this is as you said a substantial sum and would like to know if there is a looming problem I should know about.

Thanks

 

[archbury918]

dmd, were you able to access the link I posted on this thread, above?
It gives more detail on another's ELC B-6. I don't believe it sold as well...

 

[archbury918]

If you could (feel comfortable) can you tell me what happened with Charlie? You can PM if you feel more comfortable, not asking out of spite, but because this is as you said a substantial sum and would like to know if there is a looming problem I should know about.

Thanks

My dealing with him is in no way a reflection on ELC or its products.
It was just his manner and something he said to me. He had no idea I knew Gary (his boss and CEO of ELC) nor that I'd spoken with him about a particular issue. Think of it as dealing with the difference between a car salesman and the general manager of an auto dealership.
Sometimes one can say something that he thinks is right but isn't.

 

[leopardstyle]

Yeah, I don't know, I bought a Buzz Rickson through Charlie at History Preservation a few weeks ago and I had a great experience. He was very communicative and responsive. I think he also gave his opinions as honestly as he could. Sometimes it's hard for the sales person to get every single thing right when there are so many variables to these jackets we love. I would buy from Charlie again without hesitation. Although i do respect other people's experiences as well.

 

[dmdmorris]

Thanks guys. I had a panic attack for a second. Sounded reminiscient of Aero USA.

 

[leopardstyle]

Yeah, I like Aero jackets a lot, but after the good experience I had with Charlie, and the quickness of the shipping, I'd highly consider their products in the future.

 

[archbury918]

As I said, the working relationship with a company is just as key as the product itself.
Remember, we on this forum also have the ability to get the opinions of customers beyond what ELC, Aero, et al. can and do.
Get as much info as you can to make a decidedly informed purchase.
I don't know if Charlie or anyone from Aero Scotland monitor these forums anymore.

 

[dmdmorris]

I know Aero does. I will also say that in my personal dealings with Aero Scotland and Amanda specicifically, they were fantastic! I would not hesitate to order another jacket from them. They are extremely responsive. I wish my own company was as responsive.

 

[dmdmorris]

dmd, were you able to access the link I posted on this thread, above?
It gives more detail on another's ELC B-6. I don't believe it sold as well...

Not yet, I just registered and am waiting for my registration to be approved. Thanks

 

[archbury918]

Good. Wasn't sure if non members could view the thread.
You will find it a great forum for and about jacket addicts! lol

One, tip. If your registration email is one of the free services, (yahoo, hotmail, etc), you won't be able to register. They stopped accepting those due to increase of spam generated emails that occurred.