I have previously owned several A2s from this, the smallest of RW's wartime contracts. This one is made from what I suspect is cowhide. We know from DNA testing cowhide was used in the ac23380 contract, which was awarded on 26th December 1941 and was for 12,000 jackets. The leather has great character.
I have replaced the Crown zip with an M-41 NOS Talon and also replaced all the knits which had been badly attacked by moths.
Looking carefully at the leather, which remains very supple, it has been lightly re-dyed around 1944 when the shoulder decal was applied. As a size 44 it fits more like a 42 and is slightly smaller, although still wearable, than the size 44s I have from RW's four other contracts. Sadly the white pocket label is missing, although the nomenclature label present and in good shape. I will post some wearing pictures later in the week.
I have replaced the Crown zip with an M-41 NOS Talon and also replaced all the knits which had been badly attacked by moths.
Looking carefully at the leather, which remains very supple, it has been lightly re-dyed around 1944 when the shoulder decal was applied. As a size 44 it fits more like a 42 and is slightly smaller, although still wearable, than the size 44s I have from RW's four other contracts. Sadly the white pocket label is missing, although the nomenclature label present and in good shape. I will post some wearing pictures later in the week.
