Scarce Original 1939 Dated 1930 Pattern Sidcot Suit - Size 5

A scarce original 1939 dated Royal Air Force 1930 Pattern Sidcot Flying Suit in a size 5. 

This pattern of suit was introduced into issue with the RAF in the early 1930s and is synonymous with pilots and aircrews in the early part of the Second World War. These suits feature in many original period photographs from the Battle of Britain as well as the early actions in France in 1940. They were replaced in 1941 making them very rare and sought-after today. 

The suit is made from rubberised linen which is the same material used for the 1932 pattern Mae West. The first Sidcot was designed by inventor Sidney Cotton (SID COT) in 1917 with the 1930 pattern being the first official pattern to be made after the Great War. It retained the overall style as well as the angled map pocket located to the left portion of the chest. This features another smaller pocket inside which fastens with a press stud - something deleted on later models. The front of the suit fastens with a metal zipper which features a chromium plated zipper which is maker marked 'Lightning'. Both the legs and the sleeves also fasten with the same type of zips and function as they should. There is an opening at the fly and two sheepskin lined pockets are located to the front of each leg. All the buttons are corozo examples and the rear of the suit features a belt which can be adjusted using two slider buckles. There is also a zipper to each side seam which when opened allows hand access to the clothing worn underneath the suit. 

Inside the overalls the original label is still present and the details are still legible. It bears the size of 5 which is designed to fit up to 5' 11" tall and a 38" - 40" waist. The 1939 contract number is present to the bottom of the label. 

The suit is in good condition with no serious flaws or damage. It displays very well and is still wearable although there are plenty of signs of wear and use as well as various staining etc. Please 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 very rare and hard to find pattern of RAF flying suit which is in good condition and comes complete with its original 1939 label. This is a must have for the serious Battle of Britain collector!