Eastman Pearl Habor A2, a couple of (detail) shots

[JanSolo]

Hello everybody,

I will post a proper review of my latest acquisition during the next couple of days. But before I can convince both the tree and the grumpy model to help me out once more I will show you a couple of details of this jacket.

This is my first Eastman A2 (after literally dozens of Aero military and civilian jackets) and the quality of workmanship is very high. Top stitching, cut, details, hardware - everything seems to be of very high quality.
I'm not saying it is totally authentic (steerhide, time-worn finish, collar stand for this contract etc) but it looks and feels very much like a Dubow I got to handle not too long ago.
This specific jacket is NOT BLOUSY or oversized in any way. I know that older Eastmans and special contracts can be quite generously cut but this jacket is very trim and close fitting.

I bought it second hand but the jacket was totally unworn and came in its original box. The previous owner underestimated how trim the jacket would be. Due to the fact that it is long fitting it was a non returnable item. I got it at a very good price.

I have a true 39 inch chest and the jacket is a size 40 long. The fit is perfect (quod erat demonstrandum....pictures will follow). It is as trim as an A2 can be without being too small. Due to the simple and "cheap" construction when compared to the more lavish M422a it can't be worn as close fitting as the latter.
I quite fancy the Bronco and the Star cut but this jacket is surpisingly close fitting as well.

The leather is really beautiful. It does a have a decent thickness and it is quite stiff but due to the straight vegetable tanning it is also very light. Much lighter than you would expect. Upon arrival I gave the jacket a good coat of Elephant synthetic leather preserver (the best ...period). It didn't darken the leather or alter the finish in any way, which is good.

Here are a couple of shots that highlight the Time Worn finish. It is clearly visible in the following pictures but turns out to be really subtle when you see the jacket "in the flesh".

EDIT: I need to buy another "R" for the header. But "Rs" are expensive these days...

 

[Metatron]

Always good to see a JanSolo review! But jeez, too many A-2s! I hope you will give a unique perspective. It sure needs it!

Fantastic looking leather!

 

[Metatron]

Btw, what is the purpose of the spring in the zip? is it just so that it snaps down when not in use?

 

[djd]

That leather is BEAUTIFUL!

 

[JanSolo]

Btw, what is the purpose of the spring in the zip?

The spring holds down the little metal pull tab which in return blocks the zipper by pressing a tiny metal prong against the teeth.

That leather is BEAUTIFUL!

Thanks, yes the leather is quite nice. The seal spray finish is very thin and will gradually wear away. The jacket is also very light, it's almost a summer jacket.

 

[Sir Jacket]

Nice looking jacket, Jan. Still thinking of a trim-fitting A2 myself. Looking forward to full review/more pics. Sir J

 

[nicholasb]

Very nice. I had one of these a few years back but decided I didn't like the fit - could have used a size down I think as it seemed just slightly blousey. The colour and time worn finish are stunning. I don't remember the crown zip. Maybe mine was older.

You have a nice A2 there. Looking forward to those tree shots so I can see the fit. You normally get the fit spot on Jan.

 

[Marv]

I also have the ELC PH A2 in walnut brown, I agree with Jan on this, it is a fantastic jacket and probably one of Eastman's best sellers....

If found on my jacket that the time worn effect was very subtle and definately seems to suit the jacket and the steerhide is excellent with a wonderful grain to it.

Anyway here are some photos from probably about 8 months or so ago.......