Anything and Everything A-1

[bseal]

My Aero A-1 was relined in a light russet brown silk, with authentic horn buttons and the proper nomenclature tag switched in.

It is noticeably lighter without the heavyweight cotton sail cloth. Aesthetically, more pleasing to my eye too.

 

[John Lever]

Regarding buttons, what is the most authentic, horn or Bakelite ?
IMO horn would harken back to a much earlier age than the 30's where the new Bakelite would better go with new fangled flying machines.

 

[deeb7]

Regarding buttons, what is the most authentic, horn or Bakelite ?

Here's what ELC tell us ...

It's frontal closure was buttoned (realy horn), and these were backed (in the traditional good old tailors way, for extra strength) with smaller 'backing buttons' (again in real horn) buttons.

They also mention ....

It was originally specified to be made from a Olive Drab Capeskin

Good luck with finding one of those.

 

[Doug C]

bseal, bravo on that lining change, it's much better imho. The buttons are cool too, but I've never been able to decide which I liked more, horn or bakelite - as long as they are either one. Did you source them yourself? I thought the horn was standard on the aero?

Doug C

 

[bseal]

Thanks Doug C.

Aero usually offers a plastic button, different colors and hues. Sourced the buttons, tag, and lining.

I've been giving the jacket a whole lot of wear and it has shown a remarkably drastic break in. I guess I got so used to horsehide and goat, that I am almost surprised how pliable and grainy it has become in high stress areas. Airfrogusmc, who used to own one, was completely right -- it is a ridiculously comfortable jacket. I even notice some patina beginning in the pockets and windflap area. Even though the capeskin is breaking in quick, it is not a thin leather. I'll get some more pics up if there is interest.

Hope you are well.

 

[John Lever]

Have a look in Reviews !

 

[bseal]

As I mentioned earlier, my Aero has broken in substantially, here is the image to prove it.

Hey now!

 

[John Lever]

Hey cheeky watch out or no more Buzz Ricksons...

 

[bseal]

Does this mean that your Buzz may be ready for a ride over the Atlantic?

 

[John Lever]

mmmmmmmmm..........

 

[Doug C]

just remember I'm the only one without one right now

Doug C

 

[John Lever]

I don't think I have posted this before. Neck shot of unknown maker of quite old A1. Could be 70's or 80's or even older.

Bought the jacket from seller in Berlin, sold to our own Chris.

 

[269sqnhudson]

Does anyone know if the A1 would have had any combat application in WWII? I know they were rendered obsolete in Sept 44 but were they ever used post-'41 and has anyone got any pics?

Thanks!
Tom

 

[sealbeachbum]

Does anyone know if the A1 would have had any combat application in WWII? I know they were rendered obsolete in Sept 44 but were they ever used post-'41 and has anyone got any pics?

Thanks!
Tom

That's a good question. I have a W&G A-1 that was supposedly worn in the mini series "War and Remembrance" by a PT boat skipper. I wonder how accurate that is?

 

[bseal]

Got my hands on the ELC capeskin A-1. Interesting, very interesting.

 

[Miles_Archer]

What does that mean Doctor Fate? You like it or not?

 

[jacketimp]

Got my hands on the ELC capeskin A-1. Interesting, very interesting.

tell us more!

 

[bseal]

Simon Debrux Post subject: Re: Eastman ELC A1 (not a2 a-2) Capeskin jacket sz 44

The ultimate A-1, in my humble opinion. Assuming this is the latest model the jacket is made of glove leather and is as light as a feather. If you compare the Eastman with a photograph of an original not just the design but the fit and finish are as close a match as you are ever likely to get. I will be interested to know your thoughts bseal.

Simon


I concur.

 

[CBI]

I have seen a number of WWII period photos with guys wearing A-1's. They must have been the lifers who joined in the early 30's. Its my undertanding that a number of guys wore them in WWII, at least in the early years of the war. I am planning on doing my own artwork on an ELC A-1 with pre-war and early war art. Going to take a few months though seeing as things are getting busy and I have two A-2's I want to paint first.

 

[asiamiles]

When I was watching THE McCONNELL STORY a couple weeks ago, I noticed Alan Ladd's pre-WWII flight instructor was wearing an A-1; it's nice when a Hollywood movie get a detail like this right.