Rare Early Contract British Army 1960 Pattern Combat Smock - Size 6

A rare original early production 1960 pattern combat smock in a size 6, dating from the late 1950s or very early 1960s. 

This pattern of smock was introduced in the early 1960s and replaced the earlier Sateen combat smock. It is the for-runner to the famous 1968 pattern combat smock issued throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Notable features of this earlier smock is the flat green colour and the stitched collar. This example is different to most found today as it is a very early example. It features fewer rows of stitching to the collar and a 'Swift' branded zipper is fitted to the front. This is typical of 1950s British military clothing with its pendant shaped puller which is not seen on later smocks. 

The smock is made from a dark olive green coloured cotton sateen and features patch pockets to the chest and lower patch pockets which have an invert pleat to allow them to expand. Long sleeves end in a buttoning barrel cuff whilst the elbow features a double layer reinforcement. The left breast pocket features a stitched section to allow a pen to be held. 

Inside the jacket is a large poachers style pocket to the bottom which fastens with a single button (missing). Both the waist and bottom drawstrings are still present as is the original label. The label bears the title 'Smock, Combat (1960 Pattern)' and War Department broad arrow. The size is stated as 6 which is designed to fit someone between the height of 5' 7" and 5' 10" with a chest size between 40" and 43". 

When laid flat the jacket measures - 

Chest - 25"
Inside arm -19 3/4"
Outside arm - 25 1/2"
Shoulders - 19 3/4"
Length - 31"

The smock is in good condition with limited signs of wear and use. It is still the deep, bold colour it would have been when new and still has a sheen to it. It does have some marks which are illustrated in the pictures. The zip is also torn to one side which is again illustrated in the pictures. It still functions but should be treated with care. Please study the pictures before purchasing as this is a vintage, pre-owned item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice original early example which is very hard to find.