Greetings all,
I wanted to share my observations on my Bill Kelso A2, an Arco 18775 now that I've had it for 6 months and have thoroughly broken it in. I absolutely love this jacket. My hiatus from this forum is wholly due to my satisfaction--my search is complete! I've been through A2's from five other reputable brands, but as most of you are, I am extremely picky, and have not been completely satisfied...until now. After ordering a Rough Wear 27752 from BK, I realized I preferred the Arco--not only for it's standard colors (dark seal victory horsehide, dark khaki lining, rust knits, and olive thread), but also its collar construction and general fit. I am slim, and want my A2 to fit like a glove (I can't abide baggy sleeves, droopy epaulettes, or a poofy midsection), with enough room for an undershirt and button down (as shown). Judging from the Rough Wear I ordered, and my correspondence with BK's customer serviceman, Andy, I was able to commit to a custom jacket (returning the Rough Wear, of course). Andy, by the way, is a pleasure to work with, extremely patient, diligent, and understanding. He is the consummate professional who is there for all those obsessed, love-struck A2 addicts out there like me.
So anyways, I ordered a 38R Arco, with an additional inch on the body length and sleeves. I was able to make these decisions based on the Rough Wear, but also because of some threads on other posts here that suggested additional length particularly for folks who wear low(er) rise jeans. Definitely good advice. The delivery took a little while, due to a backordered supply of leather, but it was summer, so I wasn't in a hurry. Nevertheless, I received it before it was cool enough to wear outside, so I wore it at home and in the car, and even slept in it one night to break it in. It takes some time; be patient. The leather is very thick and heavy, but it really does form to your shape and movements. I love the rich color contrasts of the Arco, and I've found that the sheen of the hide has improved with a beautiful patina. I've gotten many compliments on the jacket. I will boast a little and say that when people ask about the jacket, I feel a little pity for them, because it's so far and above what they likely will find, invest in, and experience on their own (because they're not as obsessed as I am with A2s).
I hope this review helps some of you with your jacket decision(s)! Here is a link to my photos:
http://s1350.photobucket.com/user/s...o A2 Arco 18775?sort=3&evt=email_share&page=1
I wanted to share my observations on my Bill Kelso A2, an Arco 18775 now that I've had it for 6 months and have thoroughly broken it in. I absolutely love this jacket. My hiatus from this forum is wholly due to my satisfaction--my search is complete! I've been through A2's from five other reputable brands, but as most of you are, I am extremely picky, and have not been completely satisfied...until now. After ordering a Rough Wear 27752 from BK, I realized I preferred the Arco--not only for it's standard colors (dark seal victory horsehide, dark khaki lining, rust knits, and olive thread), but also its collar construction and general fit. I am slim, and want my A2 to fit like a glove (I can't abide baggy sleeves, droopy epaulettes, or a poofy midsection), with enough room for an undershirt and button down (as shown). Judging from the Rough Wear I ordered, and my correspondence with BK's customer serviceman, Andy, I was able to commit to a custom jacket (returning the Rough Wear, of course). Andy, by the way, is a pleasure to work with, extremely patient, diligent, and understanding. He is the consummate professional who is there for all those obsessed, love-struck A2 addicts out there like me.
So anyways, I ordered a 38R Arco, with an additional inch on the body length and sleeves. I was able to make these decisions based on the Rough Wear, but also because of some threads on other posts here that suggested additional length particularly for folks who wear low(er) rise jeans. Definitely good advice. The delivery took a little while, due to a backordered supply of leather, but it was summer, so I wasn't in a hurry. Nevertheless, I received it before it was cool enough to wear outside, so I wore it at home and in the car, and even slept in it one night to break it in. It takes some time; be patient. The leather is very thick and heavy, but it really does form to your shape and movements. I love the rich color contrasts of the Arco, and I've found that the sheen of the hide has improved with a beautiful patina. I've gotten many compliments on the jacket. I will boast a little and say that when people ask about the jacket, I feel a little pity for them, because it's so far and above what they likely will find, invest in, and experience on their own (because they're not as obsessed as I am with A2s).
I hope this review helps some of you with your jacket decision(s)! Here is a link to my photos:
http://s1350.photobucket.com/user/s...o A2 Arco 18775?sort=3&evt=email_share&page=1
Last edited:
