Original 1945 Dated RAF 'Irvin' Flying Jacket - Size 5

A very nice original late Second World War Irvin Flying Jacket in good condition which is a larger size 5. This jacket belonged to a pilot of the Fleet Air Arm called R C R Hallett. He joined the Royal Navy as a cadet in 1939 and made his way through the ranks during the war and is listed as a lieutenant by 1944. He went onto flying duties around this time and is noted as flying with 806 Squadron which was flying Seafire L.III's.

This jacket was made as part of contract 40288 which was implemented in 1943 and ran until 1945. Rather than being made from scratch, this contract was for refurbished jackets made from parts of already existing jackets and trousers, hence the variety of features seen on this example.

The jacket features a 'multi panel' construction which is typical of the examples made in the middle of the war and in the latter stages. The panels are made from mismatched off cuts and left over pieces of sheepskin which create a patchwork, contrasting effect. This includes a couple of sections of dark coloured sheepskin which is very sought-after by collectors. All of the interior panels are Devon Fleece whilst the collar is the shorter style fur. The jacket retains all original zips with the main zipper being a 'D.O.T.' branded example as are often found on WW2 manufactured jackets. The sleeves feature Air Ministry marked zips. All the zips work well and retain their original leather pullers. The original waist belt is also present and features a nickel plated buckle. Metal eyelets are fitted as vents to each armpit and there are two metal loops under the collar which fasten the collar strap. The collar is a 'Wareings' made example which is notable by its shape and features one of the hooks to the underside to which the elastic collar strap can be fitted. This denotes that the collar originally came from an early production jacket before being recycled and fitted to this jacket in 1945. The arrangement of the eyelets under each armpit is also interesting as it is irregular and both sides do not match - a quirk of these wartime recycled jackets.

Inside the jacket the original metal hanging chain is still present and is in good order. Below this is the original label which bears the simple title 'Jacket' and the size of 5 has been added in pencil (picture 16). The War Department broad arrow is also present as is the contract number and the 1945 date.

The jacket is a medium size which will suit up to a 42" chest depending on desired fit. When studying the measurements it is important to remember that the jacket is made of thick sheepskin which needs to be accounted for. When laid flat it measures -

Chest - 24"
Inside arm - 22 1/2"
Outside arm - 24 1/2"
Shoulders - 21 1/2"
Length - 27"

The jacket is in excellent, wearable condition overall and it displays very well. It is still supple and shows no signs of stitch rot etc. There are no serious flaws or damage and on the whole it is a good example. Please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small flaws commensurate with age.

A very nice late war jacket which would make a great addition to any collection or wardrobe without a doubt!