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A-1 Jacket / A1 Flying Jacket - The ultimate Golden Era flying accessory!

Dr H

Call Me a Cab
Messages
2,007
Location
Somerset, UK
Dear All

I've just taken charge of a GW A-1 in a military 46 (modern 44). Grateful thanks to John Lever for the heads up (I owe you a pint) and to Steve Salob for the opportunity to buy.

I've been keen to buy this one ever since Steve posted images in the A-1 section on the VLJF last year and was very lucky to be in the right place at the right time. John Chapman, I doff my beret to you - It's a fabulous piece of work and a superlative jacket.

As importantly for me, it's not just a good, but a perfect fit (even down to the length of the arms) straight out of the box. It fits everywhere and feels great - no kidding it might have been tailored for me...

The hide is the Italian cape and to date JC has only produced one jacket from it. The finish is almost vintage with a great patina - I can't wait to see how it wears in following daily wear in rain and shine.

It's pitch black out there so images will probably have to wait until the weekend, but I'll post something soon.

One happy camper...

Ian
 

WhiskeyTangoFox

One of the Regulars
Messages
157
Location
Iowa, U.S.A.
I have one of those W&G A-1 jackets. It was my first real flight jacket - so I still love it to death. As HoosierDaddy said, it is made from capeskin - sort of a reddish/light brown color. The cut of the jacket is pretty generous (to me). It's very comfortable to wear too.

Noel
 

BenchLoom

New in Town
Messages
17
Location
San Francisco
I haven't read all 42 pages of threads on this subject but does anyone know about the fit and quality of the Ralph Lauren A-1? They call it the Purple Label Bomber for $3999.

I was extremely impressed with the A-1 made by Chapal of France Since 1832. I was over there in September and saw the cut and quality and decided to carry it in our store Bench & Loom. It's pricey but fits better than the Aero, which is also excellent quality.
 

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