Estimated to be from the 1980s, this is a Barbour 'Beaufort'.
Barbour is an outdoor lifestyle brand founded in 1894 in South Shields, in the northeast of England.
While the brand now releases numerous items for town wear, it originated as workwear—providing durable oilcloth to dock workers, sailors, and fishermen. The foundation of Barbour remains rooted in that heritage.
The fact that Barbour holds a Royal Warrant—a distinction notoriously difficult to obtain—speaks for itself regarding the quality of the brand.
Currently, only three individuals are authorized to grant Royal Warrants: Queen Elizabeth, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Prince Charles.
Only brands holding a Royal Warrant may display the Royal Arms, yet these are scrutinized and renewed every five years. Even once granted, a brand risks losing the warrant after five years—it is an exacting world.
That Barbour has maintained three Royal Warrants continuously speaks volumes.
The piece presented here is a 'Beaufort' from the two-crest period, produced only between 1982 and 1987.
More notably, this particular example possesses qualities sought after by vintage Barbour enthusiasts: a hooded version with light brown corduroy collar and a YKK zipper—a combination of considerable rarity.
The Beaufort stands as a signature model among both vintage and contemporary Barbour offerings.
It commands popularity no less than the Bedale, the brand's most fundamental design.
As the Bedale and Beaufort share similar detailing, some assume they are interchangeable. A brief clarification may be useful.
Originally, the Bedale was designed for equestrian use, while the Beaufort was produced for hunting. They are, in essence, different garments for different purposes.
The Beaufort is also cut several centimeters longer than the Bedale.
In Britain, tailored dress—tweed jackets and vests—were customary; the extended length was intended to be worn over such formal layers.
The Bedale features ribbed cuffs, while the Beaufort employs snap buttons to allow the sleeves to be rolled easily.
The Bedale incorporates side vents to facilitate movement while riding, whereas the Beaufort adopts a vent-free silhouette to maintain a more gentlemanly, restrained bearing.
The Beaufort and Moorland, designed for hunting, are distinguished by their most characteristic feature: substantial game pockets at the back, for carrying game once taken.
Size marking: "38"
This runs somewhat small, and would suit those of a slighter build without concern.
It is equally recommended for those of standard build seeking a properly proportioned fit.
The hood bears a minor pinhole, though the oil coating remains well-preserved. The garment is free of significant wear, soiling, or damage—a condition that might be described as exceptionally sound.
Given the nature of oilcloth and the intended use of such pieces, examples showing scuffs and tears are common. A piece in such pristine condition is seldom encountered in the market.
A 'Beaufort' from the two-crest era—produced for merely five years—embodying the rare details that distinguish it from other examples of this canonical model.
Vintage Barbour pieces of considerable age and sound condition arrive seldom at our shop. Should you be seeking such a piece, this opportunity merits your attention.
