Original 1948 Dated Royal Observer Corps Battledress Blouse - Size 6

An original 1948 Dated British Royal Observer Corps battledress jacket in a size 6. 

This pattern of jacket was introduced in the early part of the Second World War alongside a matching pair of trousers. It is similar to that worn by the RAF during the same period but has exposed buttons to the front, pockets and cuff. The jacket is made from a blue-grey coloured serge wool and is fitted with black plastic ROC pattern buttons throughout as well as a wire waist belt. 

The jacket retains its original insignia which include a WW2 pattern Royal Observer Corps breast badge with King's crown as well as matching shoulder titles fitted to the top of each sleeve. Below these is a smaller badge with the number '8' which denotes number 8 group who were based in Coventry. 

Inside the jacket there are no interior pockets and a hanging loop is fitted to the neck. The original label is also present and is bright and legible. It bears the title of 'Suit, Royal Observer Corps, Men, Blouse' below which is the size of 6. The maker's initials 'C.W.S' as present and denote the Cooperative Worker's Society, better known today as the Co-Op. Below this is the 1948 date and the War Department broad arrow marking. There is also a War Department acceptance stamp which is surmounted by the letter 'R' which confirms 1948 as the year of issue. 

When laid flat the jacket measures - 

Chest - 23"
Waist - 18"
Inside arm - 17 1/4"
Outside arm - 23"
Shoulders - 17 1/2"
Length at back - 21"

The jacket is in very good condition with only limited signs of wear and age. Overall it has a fresh appearance and displays very well. Please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A very nice example of a wartime pattern BD blouse which is a hard to find pattern today.