Original 1942 Dated British Airborne Denison Smock - Size 7

A rare original 1942 Dated First Pattern British Denison Smock made by 'C. W. S Ltd' in a size No. 7.

The denison smock is one of the most iconic garments of the Second World War due to its association with airborne forces, paratroopers, the SAS and many more. Developed in the early part of WW2 following the formation of the first airborne units, this is an early example produced in 1942 and is often referred to as the 'first pattern' by collectors today. The camouflage pattern which was designed by Major Denison is screen printed directly onto the cloth and features a sand coloured background with a green and brown 'brushstroke' pattern over this. Four patch pockets are fitted to the front and fasten with brass 'Newey' branded press studs. The front fastens with a brass zipper which features a plain puller with the letter 'N' to the reverse. Epaulettes are located to each shoulder which fasten with brown coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons. Knitted cuffs are fitted to the end of each sleeve and are in excellent condition. There are more press studs to the front which allows the tail to be secured between the wearer's legs. The tail is still present which is another positive attribute of the smock as these were often removed. 

The interior of the smock features two pockets to the chest which are made from the same material as the body of the smock. The original maker's label is present to the interior and bears the title 'Smocks, Denison (Airborne Troops)' along with the maker's name of 'C.W.S Ltd' which denotes the Co-operative Wholesale Society. The size is marked as 7 below which is the 1942 date and the War Department broad arrow. There is also a faint issue stamp in purple which shows 1942 as the date.

These smocks are cut in a wide manner to allow for plenty of free movement when worn over the battledress uniform. The smock is designed to fit a 39" - 41" chest and when laid flat it measures - 

Chest - 32 1/2"
Inside arm - 24 1/2"
Outside arm - 30 1/2"
Shoulder - 24"
Length at rear - 33 1/2"

The smock is in very good condition overall with deep, strong colours and no signs of undue wear or over exposure to sunlight. On the whole it has a very fresh appearance and displays very well indeed. There is a hand sewn repair to the inside of the left sleeve as well as a slight stain adjacent to this which is illustrated in the pictures. There is another very small hole which is illustrated in picture 23. The original owner has also hand tacked a fold through the centre of the smock to make it shorter in the body. This appears to be an original period conversion and is not an uncommon one to find. It would be easy to untack the fold to return it back to its original length but I have preserved this as part of its history. 

All in all an excellent example of an early first pattern Denison Smock which would make a fantastic addition to any collection. 

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