New Aero Premium Slim Fit 1930's Half Belt

[Cooperson]

I don't know about that - it's such a tiny amount - 12 millimeters. Given it's a hand crafted item I can well imagine any jacket being a half inch out here and there.

Seb - The length is not the only issue.

 

[Seb Lucas]

Really sorry must have missed the other details. Actually I was just referring to the other fellow's general comment about half inch variations.

 

[Cooperson]

Really sorry must have missed the other details. Actually I was just referring to the other fellow's general comment about half inch variations.

Not your fault Seb, I haven't discussed the other issues yet as I am waiting for a response from Aero.

 

[AustinTX]

Just pretend it's from Lost Worlds. Instead of it being a nuisance you'll feel manly.

Not if you frequent these forums! You're already "done," by definition. Just ask what's-his-face, he'll tell you!

 

[AustinTX]

Coop-

We should get a little pool together from TFL, help defray the cost of one of your jackets. This is not an inconsequential matter. Finally we could gain some real empirical research results on wear patterns, rather than relying on the anecdotal hints and clues supplied by this forum. (I'm only half-kidding). FWIW, I think you should go with the longer version, but, man, for the price, you'd think it could be a little more spot-on. Great look, either way.

 

[Cooperson]

Coop-

We should get a little pool together from TFL, help defray the cost of one of your jackets. This is not an inconsequential matter. Finally we could gain some real empirical research results on wear patterns, rather than relying on the anecdotal hints and clues supplied by this forum. (I'm only half-kidding). FWIW, I think you should go with the longer version, but, man, for the price, you'd think it could be a little more spot-on. Great look, either way.

Don't worry I've only paid for one, not the returns. I have paid dearly in worry and frustration though, I feel I've aged 10 years!

The good news is have been contacted by Aero and my fingers are crossed once more, a few more sleepless nights on the way

 

[Cooperson]

After a long and stressful wait, the final remake of Aero’s new pattern the “Premier slim fit 1930’s half belt” finally arrived. I’m sure many of you realized this was never just about the incorrect length, but also a pattern issue that some of the more eagle eyed of you might have spotted. Fortunately Ken contacted me and agreed to get involved to sort matters out and together with their senior machinist, Julie Leitch, they have managed to produce what I think is a very special jacket.

Once again it’s made from Horween’s chrxl front quarter horse and every single panel is perfectly matched in a smooth rich dark brown hide. The back length is spot on 25”, as requested and the sleeves are 25.5”. A new ‘Limited Edition Aero Premier Range’ label has been added, which I think is a nice touch and sort of sets apart it apart from their original patterns. The collar is now very finely finished and as you would expect, Julie’s stitch work throughout the entire jacket is flawless.

Here are some pics, I’m sure you know that if you keep clicking them you’ll get them in close up. I’ll post some more once the weather turns cold enough for me to break it in. Feel free to fire away with any comments as long as its not "I preferred the shorter/longer one" Only joking, but I now know what jacket length feels just right and this 25" back length for me is spot on.

 

[nick123]

At the end of the day, glad you're happy. You're courageous for not settling for anything less than your expectations. And this is another example of Aero making things right. Beautiful jacket, fit, and background scenery.

 

[Superfluous]

Looks and fits great!

 

[Fanch]

Coop, when I compared all of your fit pics, IMO your last iteration is very close to the first. Julie Leitch constructed my last three Aero jackets and think maybe there is no one on the planet that is a better machinist than Julie. I still think that your second jacket was too short but is all about personal preference. Although I need another jacket like I need three cheeks, I might need to buy one "last" jacket: a slim fit 1930’s half belt in Cordovan FQHH with a 25.5" back.

 

[handymike]

Nailed it Coop!
You even have space for your hands in front pockets.
It is a beautiful jacket. Enjoy!

 

[schitzo]

Am sorry to say it mate, but if we're discussing optimals, and I assume we are, then I have to confess I think yours could be a tad long, perhaps an inch, perhaps a little less

IMHO this one is definitely a much better bet. I think it could be half an inch longer, but no more than that.

Well done Schitzo you were right all along. For your eyes to be out by 0.25" is an acceptable margin of error. For those who said how great the long jacket was I suggest you have another look at the pictures, Cooperson was good enough to put them there for your viewing, so if you want to give him advice I think you could at least look at them carefully. If you look back now and you still think that one's great may I suggest a trip to the opticians!

Coops, I'm glad you got the result you wanted. I agree with everyone else that the Premium 30s HB does look better than the regular version

 

[schitzo]

Well done Schitzo you were right all along. For your eyes to be out by 0.25" is an acceptable margin of error.

Although.. maybe 24.75" would have been even better? I guess now we'll never know!

 

[Fanch]

Although.. maybe 24.75" would have been even better? I guess now we'll never know!

Nope. 24.75" is way too short. 25" is perfect.

 

[handymike]

Coop, your jacket looks so good that I'd almost consider Horween FQHH.....;-)

 

[Cooperson]

Ha ha, thanks for the comments and support chaps. Photos showing jacket length can be a little bit misleading depending on if you've just hitched your jeans up or let them settle a while. It's only by wearing a jacket for a bit that you get the true feel for if it works or not. For me a long jacket like a long half belt you expect to part it, like a pair of curtains, to put your hands in your jeans pockets. With a short style like the 30's half belt or highwayman, it's a must to be able get your hands in without interference, any in between stuff just doesn't feel right, to me anyway.

Nic123 - I think you know what I've been through, it's been a long stressful affair, but as you say Aero did make it right in the end.

Fanch - jacket length aside, there was a more important pattern issue that needed correcting. I know you've found your own sweet spot for length, I've now found mine, what has surprised me though is just how critical it is for a truly perfect fit.

Handymike - I can get my hands in my pockets and I'm happy As for the heavy front quarter horse, it's not for everyone and can feel like wearing a suitcase until it breaks, but the depth of colour, the smell and character it develops is just very special, there really isn't another hide like it. Good luck with your Ventura order by the way, can't wait to see that beauty!

Schitzo - Your eagle eyes were indeed on form, I'll give you the 1/4" - the jacket will ride up that bit with wear anyway

 

[theundeadkennedy]

That's the best fit I've seen in a half belt I think. Very nice. I'm jealous of the collar, make me wish I waited on my half belt.

 

[winterland1]

Great jacket, fit and pics.

 

[Dr.Seuss]

It is funny, how a 1/4 inch can weigh so heavily upon one's mind. I know the frustration (but for sleeve length); and the satisfaction when all the pieces line up. Tip of the hat to perseverance! Apparently, a trip to the eye doctor is in my future.

 

[Sloan1874]

Great looking jacket, length's spot on. Got to say, I love that new collar shape too.