GERMAN WWII LUFTWAFFE AVIATORS LEATHER FLYING JACKET

A very little-known fact about the Luftwaffe leather flying jackets of WWII is the fact that there was only one model design for a Luftwaffe leather flying jacket, which accompanied the matching trousers; there were never any individually issued flying jackets; virtually all that is seen on today’s market are representations of 1940’s or 50’s motorcycle jackets. This model of leather flying suit was only made in two colours, brown and grey. Both the brown and grey models had identical collars in a purple velvet-like material. Most of the jackets after WWII were either completely civilianised or partially civilianised. By civilianised, we mean that some of the features needed for the aviator were removed. Both the grey and blue suits were always heated, and the first item that was civilianised post-war was the removal of the electrical tabs from the exterior of the lower arms. This example in excellent leather condition in brown still has its privately attached Luftwaffe officers' breast eagle; these were never issued from the factory with an eagle, and it was up to the individual aviators if they wished to apply an eagle. The parts of the jacket that have been civilianised are as follows: The inner lining has been replaced, the hidden waist tightener has been removed, the five Luftwaffe buttons have been replaced with wooden buttons, both plastic sleeve zips are intact with their pullers, both are marked ‘RiRi’ with their closure male/female pop studs. The attachment ring that is attached to the inner neck closure is in place, as is the strap to tighten the neck, the front map pocket with its closure male/female stud is all complete. These jackets did not have a facility for shoulder boards, it still has its very faint manufacturer's silk label, where the only visible lettering is the date ‘1944’. Stitching to the leather overall is very strong and usable. A rare Luftwaffe leather flying jacket from WWII in a nearly complete original configuration.

Ref; 96741