A Barbour '3/4 Coat', estimated to date from the 1980s.
A special arrival.
Barbour is an outdoor lifestyle brand founded in 1894 in South Shields, in the North East of England.
While the brand today releases items for town wear, its origins lie in workwear—providing durable oilcloth to dock workers, sailors and fishermen. That foundation remains embedded in everything the house makes.
The fact that Barbour holds a Royal Warrant—a distinction notoriously difficult to attain—speaks to the consistency of its quality.
Currently, only three warrant holders exist: Queen Elizabeth, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Prince Charles.
Only those bearing a Royal Warrant may display the Royal Arms. Yet these warrants are scrutinised and renewed every five years—a stringent process where even established holders may lose their standing. It is a demanding world.
Barbour has maintained three Royal Warrants continuously. Remarkable.
This example is a two-crest period piece, produced between 1982 and 1987—a '3/4 Coat' of considerable scarcity.
Though the model appeared from the 1960s onward, examples are sparse enough that many will encounter one for the first time.
The so-called 'Original 3/4 Coat' from the 1990s and 2000s remains uncommon but does surface in the market occasionally. The two-crest and earlier variants, however, are rarely seen.
Barbour's vintage models were manufactured according to their intended purpose, as you likely know. This was made for town wear—a rare designation for this model.
At first glance, it reads as straightforward, yet it carries Barbour's quiet conviction throughout.
True to its name, the coat is cut to roughly 3/4 length and tailored in 8-ounce weight cotton—a presence entirely its own.
Most models feature a dual-closure front with both zipper and snap buttons. This one closes by snap alone—an uncommon detail in the Barbour lineup that will appeal to those who notice such things.
The 'Original 3/4 Coat' from the 1990s and 2000s presents a symmetrical front closure. Earlier two-crest pieces, by contrast, feature an asymmetrical design where the left front overlaps substantially—a defining difference.
Simple, timeless in proportion, and crafted from 8-ounce oilcloth that performs well against wind, this is a coat built for autumn and winter wear—perhaps the most suited to everyday town use in the Barbour repertoire.
No size marking is present, though the measured proportions suggest a golden size for Japanese frames, accommodating a wide range of builds.
It will look equally assured worn loose and generously across the shoulders.
There is minor wear at the hem. Otherwise, the coat shows no notable soiling or damage.
This two-crest '3/4 Coat' arrives with us for the first time.
It is seldom encountered in the wider market. If you have been searching for one, this may warrant your attention.
