Rare Original 1930s Sheepskin Flying Coat by ‘Wareings’

Description

About this item

A rare original sheepskin flying jacket which was made by ‘Wareings’ in the late 1930s. Wareings were a prolific maker of leather clothing during the 1930s and 1940s for both the civilian and military market. They were awarded contracts during the late 1930s and throughout the Second World War by the RAF to make sheepskin flying jackets which this very closely resembles. It is essentially an early contract ‘Wareings’ made jacket which has a long skirt as all of the other details are exactly the same. I believe that this is a private purchase or civilian pattern of coat although it could potentially be an RAF contract coat. The coat is made from the standard sheepskin used for flying jackets during this period. The exterior is in good condition retaining a large amount of its chromed leather finish whilst the interior is also very clean featuring a golden brown coloured sheepskin throughout. The collar is typical of Wareings made jackets as it features a very square shape. The reverse features a black elastic strap which is a feature unique to pre-war and early war flying jackets. There is also a strap at the collar which fastens through two metal rings as illustrated in picture 9. The front of the coat fastens with a high quality ‘D.O.T.’ branded zipper which features a locking puller and retains its original leather pull tab. The cuff zips are also the same brand and design but do not feature the locking puller. They again retain their original leather pull tabs. There is also a waist belt which is the same design as used on the standard flying jacket but is a full, removable belt. The buckle is also the same as seen on Wareings flying jackets from this period. The coat features a long skirt to which flapped pockets are fitted. These fasten with typical period press studs and feature reinforcing rivets to each corner. A metal hanging chain is fitted to the interior below the collar which is another trademark of Wareings jackets. The coat will suit around a 38″ – 40″ chest depending on desired fit and when laid flat it measures – Chest – 24″Inside arm – 21 1/2″Outside arm – 24 1/4″Shoulders – 19″Length at rear – 41″The coat is in fantastic condition for its age and displays very well. It is totally wearable with no serious flaws, wear or signs of damage. The chromed leather finish to the exterior is very good with some small areas of crazing, most notably to the arms. Overall it is a fantastic example which would be very hard to better. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. A fantastic piece of late 1930s outwear with some incredible details and in stunning condition.

This is a vintage item which is ‘sold as seen’

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