Advice on what to do with this Buco J-27?

[Gamma68]

I took a gamble on a jacket not quite knowing what it was. But after receiving it, I think this is a Buco J-27.

First, some fit pics:

The leather is very soft and pliable, among the softest I've handled. But the jacket feels substantial. The softness leads me to think it's not horsehide (but I could be wrong).

The inner tag is just about destroyed, but I can make out "DETROIT" at the bottom portion that is not totally shredded:

Compare to a Buco label pictured in Tanaka's book:

Interestingly, the body is quilt lined but not the sleeves. This appears original.

More details to follow...

 

[HoosierDaddy]

I'm not sure what it is but the fit is perfect. Congrats! I'd definitely keep it and wear it.
HD

 

[Gamma68]

The snaps are brass. Main zip is a brass Scovill. Sleeve and pocket zips are silver Talons.

This jacket has some issues. Someone did a home-brewed sewing repair on the handwarmer pocket, which is now without a bag.

Leather has worn off the collar edge.

There is a small hole in the right sleeve.

The zip on the left sleeve is separating and the sleeve end is chewed up.

The jacket is cool. It fits well. It didn't cost much. It also needs work.

What would you recommend?

 

[tmitchell59]

I'll start by saying, great fit! Great looking jacket. I had a Buco 27.

Here are pics you can compare.

I think it is one of the Metropolitan jackets from Detroit. I can't find any pictures of their label, but that sort of reminds me of it.

 

[tmitchell59]

Yep, you got one

 

[Gamma68]

Ah, Terry, you've got a great eye. The tag more closely resembles the Metropolitan label than Buco. It matches the diamond framing around the tag on mine.

From an eBay listing:

Compared to the one that arrived today:

 

[Gamma68]

You beat me to it, @tmitchell59. Well, with this positive identification, I'm not inclined to spend money on repairs. If it were a Buco, a different story.

 

[Bennarion]

Good for you, cool vintage,fits you well.

 

[ton312]

The tag and the shape of the epaulettes disqualify it as a Buco but it fits really well and looks the role. Nice pick up!

 

[JMax]

I have LW's version-- I find the massive chest pocket to be quite handy.

Great score-- looks great on you.

 

[Guppy]

If it were a Buco, it'd be a PJ-27, since it has a police badge holder. Enjoy it.

 

[Lebowski]

Yep, you got one

Terry, please look into your PM or your e-mail.

 

[TheGuitarFairy]

good looking jacket and it looks great on you!
i just gave away a black label Brooks PJ27 that had some <serious> character .. wish i could find pics i have of it!

 

[HoosierDaddy]

Sorry to say but with the issues in your photos I think I would move it on rather than trying to find someone to professionally repair it. Don't think that would be cheap. However you might do a little research first on the costs.

 

[ton312]

I’d just wear it without worry about the small issues. They aren’t terribly serious, the fit is good. Enjoy it for what it is. Probably not worth the hassle of selling this, especially in the current eBay climate of garbage buyers.

 

[Gamma68]

Thanks for the input, guys. It fits well but is a little too rough for me. I’m going to return it unless someone here wants it. Size tag is gone but I’d call it a size 40.

 

[navetsea]

even the kidney panel is separating, and you're not lack of equally cool crosszips need wearing or breaking in, return it, the seller might find a better deal when a hipster biker garage need a jacket decoration for their shop or something.

 

[tmitchell59]

Forgot I also sold a Ralphs Edwards in this style. Both the Buco and the Edwards are two of the most comfortable wearing jackets. I may get another one. They just fit so nice, to me they are more appealing than other police/cross zip styles.

Go searching for a size 40 in better condition. This is the best fitting/looking jacket you have shown.

 

[JMax]

Forgot I also sold a Ralphs Edwards in this style. Both the Buco and the Edwards are two of the most comfortable wearing jackets. I may get another one. They just fit so nice, to me they are more appealing than other police/cross zip styles.

I recall that Ralph Edwards. Stunning jacket. There is one on eBay now for over $900.

 

[Gamma68]

Forgot I also sold a Ralphs Edwards in this style. Both the Buco and the Edwards are two of the most comfortable wearing jackets. I may get another one. They just fit so nice, to me they are more appealing than other police/cross zip styles.

Go searching for a size 40 in better condition. This is the best fitting/looking jacket you have shown.

Yes, I am returning it and will keep my eyes peeled for another. Maybe I’ll even come across a Buco.