Links Irvin 1941-42 Pattern (larger size, 46" Chest)

[Dr H]

Here is a mid-war pattern Links Irvin in a larger size (the characteristic rounded collar is evident).
The label is missing, but it compares very well with an Eastman Leather Company RAF reproduction jacket in a size 46, so presumably it equates with a size 7 or 8. I previously had a 2-panel Links from 1939 (viewtopic.php?f=7&t=9528&hilit=links+irvin), but this is in better all round condition (and more complete) as the older jacket had sleeve repairs and two replacement zips.

Aside from the label, the jacket is otherwise complete: zips (front and sleeves) are period Lightnings and the belt/buckle/loops are all sturdy.
The hide needs a feed as it's a little dry from storage, but otherwise it's in very supple condition.
The fleece is incredibly dense and colourful (bronze/honey interior) with minimal loss on the cuffs and windflap.
I'll edit with measurements later.
Thanks to John Lever for taking the photos, which show the colour very well.

 

[Roughwear]

Congratulations of buying this very nice Links jacket Ian. It just needs some feeding and it will look even better. I guess it fits you very well.

 

[Dr H]

Thanks Andrew - this one fits extremely well - long enough in the torso, sleeves down to the knuckle, generous around the waist and chest. If anything it fits a little better than the older Links that I had.

 

[CBI]

great look Irvin - enjoy it!!!!

 

[flyboy]

Congratulations! What a fantastic Irvin.

 

[PADDY_M]

Looks amazing.

 

[Dr H]

The basic dimensions put it closer to a 44, which is odd as it's more roomy than John's ELC RAF '42 pattern 44" that tried at the same time. Must be depth of fleece I guess.

Zipped and laid flat:

Chest (armpit to armpit) 24"
Front length (base of collar to edge of fleece) 22.5"
Back length (base of collar to edge of fleece) 24.5"
Shoulders (seam to seam) 22"
Sleeves (shoulder seam to edge of cuff, measured around edge of sleeve) 26"

Resisting the urge to put it on again as I'll get attached to it - lovely jacket indeed :roll:

 

[Roughwear]

It looks as if the jacket has been in contact with something very hot judging by the smooth circular area on the lower front right hand panel. How much are you hoping to get for it Ian?

 

[Dr H]

It looks as if the jacket has been in contact with something very hot judging by the smooth circular area on the lower front right hand panel. How much are you hoping to get for it Ian?

John Lever felt that was due to flak over Peenemunde… I defer to his greater knowledge

Still trying to gauge what the market value is, in truth.
My experience of vintage jackets is limited.

 

[John Lever]

It looks as if the jacket has been in contact with something very hot judging by the smooth circular area on the lower front right hand panel. How much are you hoping to get for it Ian?

Having examined the jacket first hand I would humbly suggest that the heat scar is visual more than physical. The area is slightly rubbery that's all.
It's a wonderful jacket, a great shape and has real presence.

 

[Roughwear]

It just adds to the character of the jacket John.

 

[Dr H]

...and the Peenemunde history...courtesy of J Lever...

 

[Roughwear]

It looks as if the jacket has been in contact with something very hot judging by the smooth circular area on the lower front right hand panel. How much are you hoping to get for it Ian?

John Lever felt that was due to flak over Peenemunde… I defer to his greater knowledge

Still trying to gauge what the market value is, in truth.
My experience of vintage jackets is limited.

It is quite hard to give a true market value for this Links jacket. Looking at recent sales on Ebay I would estimate around the £500 mark give or take a little.

 

[John Lever]

This one has repairs and sold for 675
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RAF-Irvin-fly ... 7675.l2557


This one sold for 650
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-WWII- ... 7675.l2557

 

[Roughwear]

The first one is a more desirable early two panel jacket and sold for more than I would have expected. The second has RAF provenance which always helps. Several have sold recently for under £400. It might well sell for over £500 on Ebay and I hope it does.

 

[Dr H]

....the Links has now sold, thank you.

 

[Roughwear]

That was quick work Ian, and I hope your two recent Irvin purchases produced a decent profit for you.

 

[Dr H]

Thank you Andrew. Let's just say, it was worth the additional effort and the initial financial stretch.

 

[John Lever]

Looks like I was right on the money.

 

[Dr H]

You certainly were, what can I say?
The Peenemunde history sold it...along with the excellent photos
Owe you a beer of course...