Estimated 1990s, a cotton safari jacket by Willis&Geiger.
Made in China.
Willis&Geiger was founded in 1902 by polar explorer Ben Willis as a serious outdoor brand.
During the safari travel boom among America's upper class in the 1930s, the company was among the first to offer safari clothing.
The brand undertook OEM production for Abercrombie & Fitch, a hunting shop for the wealthy that our store also carries, and produced pilot jackets for the U.S. military—their production standards were exemplary.
When Abercrombie & Fitch filed for bankruptcy in 1977, Willis&Geiger was the largest unpaid creditor and ceased operations, though the brand was revived independently by former employee Bart Avveden.
In 1994, Willis&Geiger was sold to Lands' End, and due to conflicts between Avveden and Lands' End management, the brand was discontinued by 1999.
This piece is distinguished by cotton and leather paneling throughout—a characteristic feature of the safari jacket.
Despite its safari roots, the generous lapel collar imparts a refined quality.
Camel-brown leather appears at the collar interior and cuff edges, creating an understated contrast in materials.
The detailing is restrained: patch pockets positioned at the chest and hem, with elbow patches—nothing more. A zip-fastened secret pocket is tucked inside the hem pocket, revealing Geiger's characteristic attention to practical detail.
The inclusion of a chin strap, intended for wearing the collar raised, is a noteworthy refinement.
The presence or absence of a chin strap makes a considerable difference.
When worn with the collar raised, the sense of elevation and atmosphere are in a class of their own.
It works equally well worn in a refined manner or worn casually with the collar raised.
Size marked as "L"
This is sized to American standards, which would correspond to approximately "XL" in Japanese sizing.
The actual measurements indicate a generous fit, suitable for larger frames without issue.
It will suit either a fitted or oversized silhouette.
There is evidence of wear—soiling and surface marks—but no significant damage that would compromise wearability. The piece remains very much serviceable.
Willis&Geiger no longer exists in its original form.
While select shop collaborations may appear domestically in Japan, for those who value vintage, there remains something irreplaceable about owning an original from that era.
A fine example that captures the essence of Geiger—equally at home worn refined or casual. If you have been seeking such a piece, this opportunity warrants consideration.
