Scarce Original 1942 Pattern Tank Crew Overalls - Size 6 - Tank Suit

A scarce original British Army 1942 pattern tank suit dated 1942 and in a size No. 6. 

This pattern of tank suit was produced briefly in 1942 for issue to AFV crews. Many of these suits were sent to the Middle East although were recalled and then replaced with the denim and winter tank suits and therefore only saw limited issue. There are some wartime pictures showing them in use including with the SAS in Northwest Europe in the latter part of the Second World War. 

The suit is made from a doubled warp Wigan cloth which was impregnated with PVC to give it flame and petrol retardant qualities. The suit is a step-in design and the front fastens with brown coloured vegetable ivory (plastic) buttons. Two welt pockets with fasten with 'Newey' branded brass press studs are loved to the front, below which is a single pleated First Field Dressing pocket to the right hip and a map pocket to the front of the left leg. Zip pockets are also located to each hip which allow access to clothing worn underneath the oversuit. There is another pocket to the side of the right leg which again fastens with a brass press stud. The collar features a small latch which fastens with a press stud as well as two buttons which allows the collar to be worn fastened across the wearer's neck or folded back behind the fall of the collar. Tabs are located to the bottom of each leg and fasten with buttons. 

The interior of the suit features a stitched-in harness with a handle below the collar. This was intended to be used to pull a wounded crew member out of a tank or similar fighting vehicle. The original label is still present inside the suit and bears the title of 'Overalls Tank Crews' below which is the size of 6. The War Department broad arrow marking is also present although the maker's name is no longer legible. There is also a War Department acceptance stamp which is adjacent to the label. It is surmounted by the letter 'O' which denotes the year of 1942. 

The suit is in good condition for its age with various signs of wear and use. It has a used, 'grubby' look to it which suggests that it saw use during its life. There are no serious flaws or damage although there is a small tear above the left zip slash pocket at the hip. Overall it displays well but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that it is a vintage, pre-worn item which has some flaws commensurate with age. 

A very rare piece of wartime British uniform which is photographically documented as being used by the SAS during WW2. 

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