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[handymike]

Attention BROOKS Owners- Can you let me know if your action backs open all the way down to the lower back panel?
This new jacket of mine is very tight, and seems that the bottom 4 inches of the action back has been sewn up. I'm wondering if I remove this extra line of stitching... will it fit me better?

 

[AHP91]

I bought this no label police jacket from Japan. Based on the attached photos, anyone have any information they could share? Perhaps recognize the make, hardware, etc? Thank you

 

[photo2u]

If the zip is original to the jacket, that is a very early 50's production. The repair on the bottom hole looks like it was done without the use of a gimp. However, the jacket looks very well done. The design kind of reminds me of a Californian. I have a nice Californian with those "football" articulations under the arms and the bottom back features. The belt loops also look Californian. But It could also be custom-made. Back in the day, they used to add details upon request. Cal and Trojan were known for that.

 

[AHP91]

If the zip is original to the jacket, that is a very early 50's production. The repair on the bottom hole looks like it was done without the use of a gimp. However, the jacket looks very well done. The design kind of reminds me of a Californian. I have a nice Californian with those "football" articulations under the arms and the bottom back features. The belt loops also look Californian. But It could also be custom-made. Back in the day, they used to add details upon request. Cal and Trojan were known for that.

Thank you very much for the info, as always. Sorry, but couldn't quite figure out - which hole are you referring to that was repaired? Thank you

 

[photo2u]

The eyelet in the epaulet. Back in the day, a gimp was used to reinforce the circumference of the bottom eyelet hole opening. Here is a good video demonstrating one technique using a stiff gimp:

 

[photo2u]

The zipper is the strongest Talon#5 there is. The Mili. specs zip has very thick teeth and contains a little hump on the curved male pin. I have only seen them in military garments. And of course utility service jacket like yours.

 

[AHP91]

Thank you for the interesting information

 

[Mandarin]

Attention BROOKS Owners- Can you let me know if your action backs open all the way down to the lower back panel?
This new jacket of mine is very tight, and seems that the bottom 4 inches of the action back has been sewn up. I'm wondering if I remove this extra line of stitching... will it fit me better?
View attachment 527672
View attachment 527671

I have the same line of stitching. I think it's part of the pattern.

 

[handymike]

Thank you. It definitely makes it fit more snug than my Kehoe which is open down to the seam.

 

[photo2u]

Thank you. It definitely makes it fit more snug than my Kehoe which is open down to the seam.

Have you considered the method Marc used to restore one of his jackets? If I remember correctly, after cleaning, he put pillows inside the jacket. I believe he was able to stretch the jacket a bit. He has a very nice treat with pictures. I have been contemplating using such a method to stretch a Cal.

 

[handymike]

I actually asked Marc about it. But this one has an original acrylic blue topcoat that might get damaged in a full soaking. I’m trying to stretch it slowly by kneading it, but sewn seams might prevent me from getting all the way to where I want it to be. I’ve already split the back seam a bit- not really a problem and an easy fix since it’s got no liner. The shoulders, chest, sleeves, and length are all great! It’s purely the stomach area that’s too tight. I need to lose 20bs…at 145-150 it would fit.

 

[Poltung]

Does anyone have a link to a thread / photos of lost worlds heavy black leather aging? And of CXSH black?

 

[handymike]

https://www.thefedoralounge.com/threads/broken-in-lost-worlds-a-myth.99032/

https://www.thefedoralounge.com/thr...-older-aero-steer-hide-jacket-in-black.80576/

 

[Booneville]

What can I use on a black leather jacket (cowhide) to bring some shine back? I looked up on Amazon and found conditioners like Bick's and Leather honey. And also minsk oil, which also waterproofs (not a need of mine).

Thanks

 

[handymike]

Urad will give you a shine. Blackrock will give you a waxy lustre like CXL.

 

[Booneville]

Urad will give you a shine. Blackrock will give you a waxy lustre like CXL.

Perfect. Thanks. Found them on Amazon. Will probably try both - first Urad then blackrock the following year

 

[Rawky]

Anyone have thoughts, experiences etc with the Hein Gericke brand? In terms of quality and such.

 

[torfjord]

I've only ever owned or handled one Hein Gericke jacket, their version of the Swedish military dispatch rider jacket. I still own it. Both leather, fit and construction quality is as good as any out there.

 

[handymike]

Perfect. Thanks. Found them on Amazon. Will probably try both - first Urad then blackrock the following year

Urad contains resin, so if you are considering trying both, I’d go with the Blackrock first.

 

[PeterRocco]

What is the function of this belt loop on the inside of the jacket?
View attachment 297732 View attachment 297733

Great Question. Now we all know.