David D. Donger A-2 in a size 44

[Roughwear]

Here is another jacket from my collection, a size 44 goatskin David D. Doniger A-2. Doniger had just one contract for A-2s, 42-21539-P, which was awarded on 9th June 1942. It was a very small contract, for 5,000 jackets. I have owned five Donigers over the years and this is the best preserved. Everything is original down to the factory installed goatskin zip puller!

The build quality is first rate on Donigers. The goatskin has developed a great vintage patina. The lining is complete as are the wristlets and waistband. The M-41 Talon zip works perfectly.

This jacket was issued at least twice in the war as the photos show, to Walker and then to Chief. Although I have found the enlistment records on these chaps I have not found out anything about their service records.

 

[Kennyz]

Really amazing jacket, Andrew. In my opinion, Doniger's are one of the most nicely styled A-2's.

Ken

 

[Roughwear]

I agree Ken. They are very sharp and stylish.

 

[Silver Surfer]

they were kinda cut like a suit, thus the sharp design and look. it has always been interesting to me that for such a small contract, the existing donis that i have [had 3 at one point] come across have always been in way better then average to excellent condition....such as andrews doni.

 

[CBI]

Love this - I had a similar original but patched - yes, a unique design for sure - very sturdy goatskin!!!!!!!!! Congrats Andrew

 

[eckhartus]

Amazing jacket. I have one similar but not in mint condition like this one. this jacket is a dream.

 

[Roughwear]

Very true Vic and my experience too. I have never seen one with rot issues which are commonly seen on Cable and Spiewak goatskn A-2s. I suspect Doniger only used properly tanned and finished goatskin.

 

[Smithy]

That's a beauty Andrew! The leather grain alone is sublime.

 

[Jonesy86]

I'm a newbie. Never heard of Doniger before. Still learning. This jacket looks wonderful. I have thus far only delved into repros. form the usual makers. Know nothing about truly vintage jackets. I really like the goat. Also learned from this thread that there are sometimes "rot issues", with this clearly does not have. Great post, thank you for educating me.
PS
Would love to find one like this for sale in a 44L.
Thanks

 

[Justin B]

I had one once, It was in amazing condition and I always liked the look of them. They hold up to age very well.

 

[s4rmark]

Lovely looking jacket Andrew.

 

[Roughwear]

Thank you guys. Here it is being worn at Duxford earlier in the year.

 

[TankBuster]

Very nice Andrew! I know the jacket well as it used to be mine. I bought it on eBay many moons ago. Originally there was no spec label in it. I had added a GW repro one that John was gracious enough to send me. Good to see the jacket is still out there being enjoyed. The Goatskin on it was nearly perfect.

J

 

[Roughwear]

Thanks Jeff. The current spec label is an original one from a less well preserved Doniger! It is a lovely wearable jacket.

 

[tjoenn]

Fantastic jacket! I thought after getting my first original two weeks ago, that would be it, but now I think: "my next original should be a doniger." Are the knits original as well?

 

[Roughwear]

Yes, they are.

 

[johnwayne]

Having seen Andrews Doniger up close and personal so to speak, it illustrated well just how good and faithful GW's repro is, or certainly mine is and those Ive seen pop up for sale from time to time. It's hard to decide which I prefer, my repro Doniger or my original Dubow (that incidentally I got from Andrew!), I've always leaned towards the Dubow purely as it's the real thing I guess but having had the Doniger for a good few years now it's taken on a lived in look but from day one has always been my most comfortable and best fitting jacket.

 

[Roughwear]

Hopefully I will see you in yours at Duxford later in the year Wayne.

 

[johnwayne]

May do Andrew, seems a long way off but looking forward to it!

 

[Roughwear]

The next three months will go by quickly Wayne! I already have my ticket for the Saturday.