A French Army 'Motorcycle Leather Jacket', estimated to date from the 1950s.
A special arrival.
As the name suggests, a "Motorcycle Leather Jacket" thought to have been issued to motorcyclist units of the French Army.
When it comes to motorcycle garments of the French Army, models such as the "M-35" and "M-38" are probably the best known. This piece, however, is exceptionally rare even among motorcyclist-unit items, and given how few examples survive, it was quite possibly issued to a particular unit or even to an individual.
This piece has the rare detail known as "double-breasted", with two rows of buttons. A double-breasted piece has more visual impact and presence than a single-breasted one, as you would expect.
It has no epaulettes, which many people find off-putting, and so little of the costume about it that it sits naturally with today's clothes; a jacket very well suited to everyday wear in town.
The body is lined with a cotton herringbone twill, and the sleeves with a smooth satin that slips on easily.
The stamp that marks it as an original French Army issue is clearly visible on the inside, which is surely another point in its favour. The ink of the stamp is still dark, suggesting the jacket has been worn with care over the years.
Unusually for a leather jacket, the sleeves are cut as "raglan sleeves". Perhaps helped by the already softened leather, it settles naturally on the shoulders, so it can be worn with a clean silhouette that is not too rugged.
The leather is, in all likelihood, a generous use of "Cowhide".
Cowhide is leather made from a cow over two years old that has already borne a calf: in other words, a mature female. The hide is thick, strong and highly durable; the more it is worn, the deeper its lustre, and little by little it becomes supple and soft to the touch.
Many people avoid leather because they find it stiff, but there is no need to worry here. The leather has already become soft enough to cling to the body, so it is wonderfully easy to wear.
Its rarity aside, seen simply as a piece of clothing it is a genuinely handsome jacket, and I would very much like it to be worn freely, without hesitation.
Size marked "B2" Roughly equivalent to a Japanese "M ~ L".
Judging by the measurements as well, it is a well-balanced 'golden' size for a Japanese build, and should suit a wide range of body types. It looks right whether worn true to size or oversized.
There are signs of use, including colour mottling, marks, scuffs and flaws natural to the leather, abrasion and a missing button, but no significant damage that affects wear, so it has plenty of life left in it.
Among the many French Army pieces, this one rarely comes to market: the "Motorcycle Leather Jacket". So few exist that many of you may be seeing one for the first time.
A piece that more than earns its place, whether in the wardrobe or in a collection. A piece like this is seldom seen, even in Japan, so if you have been searching, or simply love unusual things, do not let this opportunity pass.
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