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Email: david@historicflyingclothing.com
Web site: https://www.historicflyingclothing.com/

RAF Irvin flying jacket - history

SOLD

Code: J26377



'Thermally Insulated Flying Suit, Jacket'.  Physically measures approximately 46” (maximum) so should be OK for around a 40/42” chest.  This example is of typical mid war construction with a four panels front and rear.  The leather is in very good overall condition, appears strong in most parts and has much of the original chromed finish with excellent flexibility.  There is general wear, abrasion, surface nicks and creasing but no tears, repairs or serious issues.  The overall finish is a relatively dark brown with a good even sheen.  All zips are original, manufactured by 'D-o-T', and in good working condition though the main slider is lacking the puller tag (see photographs).  Both sleeve zips have Air Ministry crown marks.  The lining is excellent, very good at the waist but rather worn at each cuff.  Some seam restitching has been undertaken and they now appear to be good and tight.  The belt is good bar surface crazing where it passes through the buckle and the collar is complete with strap/rings and rear eyelets for a strap (not present).  This jacket belonged to Donald Royston Barrett (162173/162044) and came to us with other kit, including a flying helmet, oxygen mask and leather holdall that is listed separately.  Born in West Yorkshire in 1916, Barrett enlisted at Padgate after November 1941, was a Flying Officer (war subst.) c. 4th August 1944 and he appears to have ended the war as a Flight Lieutenant (war subst.) c. February 1946.  He died in 2007.  Unfortunately we have no other information on him.  A good '+' to very good mid war example that displays well.  Stock code J26377.

Approximate size, jacket zipped and laid flat: pit to pit 43", centre pit seam to cuff 21.5", shoulder seam to cuff 24", lower pit seam to waist 14", mid pit seam to waist 16", collar seam to waist 25".