A Levi's 557 denim jacket, estimated from the 1960s.
A special item arrival.
Levi's traces its origins to 1853, when Levi Strauss established a general store and fabric merchant in San Francisco. The brand introduced jeans to the world. During the height of the gold rush, the company listened to the needs of miners working in the goldfields and commercialized work trousers made from canvas fabric—the same material used for tents and ship sails. This was the genesis of the jean.
The 557 presented here is from a brief five-year production window, spanning 1962 to 1967, making original examples scarce. This is what collectors refer to as the "3rd" model.
Compared to the later "4th" model, the 70505, the fading, hand feel, and presence of vintage Levi's are entirely distinct.
The jacket length remains notably short—a quality that underscores its unfinished character.
Within the 3rd model line, there are variations: the '557XX' with guarantee tab, the '557XX' without, and the '557' proper. This example exhibits a missing patch—the key identifier. However, the flap pocket lining is constructed from the same weight fabric, suggesting this is indeed a true 557.
The button reverse bears the marking "O".
The red tab displays the "balanced V Big E" graphic, known to have been used from 1953 through the late 1960s.
The older the piece, the more beautiful the indigo fading becomes—both warp and weft revealing their character through time. Contemporary denim abounds from various makers, yet the distinction is immediate. Nothing surpasses the patina of the vintage.
Simplicity is best. A jacket of this caliber rewards the wearer through years of wear. Layer it effortlessly and the presence speaks for itself. We encourage you to embrace it without artifice.
No size marking is present, though it appears to run approximately 42 to 44. Accounting for shrinkage, this falls into what Japanese collectors regard as a golden size—one sought by many. The proportions will accommodate a wide range of builds.
The indigo is not a deep navy, yet as photographs reveal,this example has faded with remarkable character. Subjectively, it ranks among the deeper examples encountered in vintage Levi's denim.
Whisker fading marks both sleeves—a hallmark of authentic vintage denim wear patterns.
Surface wear is present, yet the condition remains clean given its age.
There are no significant defects that would impede wearing. This piece remains fully wearable.
Examples of this size and condition are uncommon in the marketplace.
Vintage Levi's from earlier eras—in desirable sizing and good condition—are rare encounters. Should you be seeking such a piece, this may warrant consideration.
【Size Details】
Length (front) 62.5cm, (back) 56cm
Shoulder width 48.5cm
Body width 58cm
Sleeve length 62.5cm
※ Slight variations in measurement are acceptable.
【Condition】
USED
※ Surface wear present.
※ Patch missing.
【Fit Reference】
Model frame: 165cm, 50kg
【Returns and Exchanges】
Due to the nature of vintage goods, returns and exchanges are not accepted.
Please review all details carefully before purchase. Should you have questions, contact us prior to ordering.
Wear marks and signs of age are inherent to these pieces and are not grounds for return.
Color variation between photographs and the physical item is not returnable.
Returns due to sizing concerns or unmet expectations are not accepted.
We ask that only those comfortable with these terms proceed with purchase.
【Inquiry Code】
J0287
