Original 1950s British Airborne Denison Smock - Full Zip Conversion

An original British Airborne Denison Smock which was made in the 1950s, most likely by 'George Davis & Co'.

This pattern of smock was introduced in the immediate post-war years and is sometimes referred to as the 'third pattern' or the '1946 pattern' by collectors today. It is very similar in many ways to the wartime produced second pattern smocks. The main details which denote this as being a post-war smock are the knitted cuffs and the nickle plated 'Newey' branded press studs. 

The smock features a screen printed camouflage pattern with a sand coloured background with reddish-brown and green brushstroke pattern. The colours are typical of George Davis made smocks from the middle of the 1950s and usually carry a 1954 or 1956 date. The collar is lined with a khaki green coloured wool shirting material and epaulettes are located to each shoulder. The fishtail is still present to the rear. There are also two small tabs to each side which fasten with press studs and six more press studs to the front which the fishtail can be attached to. The original knitted cuffs are still present to the end of each sleeve and are in good condition with some small holes etc.

The smock has been retro fitted with a full length zipper to the front. This was a common modification during WW2 as well as in the post-war period. The design changed in 1959 which meant that all feature denisons had a full zip front. This modification is clearly a period alteration which was done at the time. The zip used is a WW2 period 'D.O.T' branded example which is brass and features a large stop box to the bottom. An original period applied parachute qualifiction wing has been fitted to the upper right sleeve. 

Inside the smock the original label is still present although it is washed out leaving no details legible. The construction, camouflage pattern and colour etc denote this as being made between 1954 and 1956 - Almost certainly by George Davis & Co. 

The smock is a medium size and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 28"
Inside arm - 20"
Outside arm - 22"
Shoulders - 20 1/2"
Length - 33"

The smock is in good condition with some signs of wear and age. There are no serious flaws or damage and overall it displays well and is totally wearable. There are a couple of small holes to the front as illustrated in picture 8 and a couple of small holes are present to the knitted cuffs. 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 original example with a great preiod fitted full zipper. 

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'