Best M-422A Repro

[Thomas.m]

Take a look at this video about M-422A, maybe you’ll get more information

 

[bseal]

There seem to be several people/companies making reproduction M-422A flight jackets. Getting one to wear is on my list. However, I am not well informed enough (nice way of saying that I'm totally ignorant) of the makers . The price range is from around USD $1200+ to less than USD $300. That's quite a spread. All are stated to be goatskin with mouton collars and appear, to me, to be the same. What's a good M-422A for just wearing about occasionally? Thoughts?

FWIW, I have my G-1 being restored. The purpose of this jacket is an homage to my Father's jacket and the memories of it from my early childhood.

What size are you?

 

[tda003]

Thomas.m: Thank you for the video. It's quite informative. I had to watch it several times. Being a Southerner, I had trouble with his accent.

bseal: Currently 44. If I were buying now, I'd probably remeasure depending on maker.

 

[bseal]

Tda003,

Preferred sleeve length? Budget?

 

[Jorgeenriqueaguilera]

If you happen to go for an original, make sure to check the measurements, I find that they normally run 1 size larger. My 40 runs like a 42, and both of my 42's run like a 44.

Size: 40

Size: 42

 

[tda003]

Torn. Would prefer an original. However 2 in my size (44, original) are sad. One has nothing left useable except the leather itself. Cuffs, collar, waistband, lining and label are perished. Even at a reasonable price, restoration would set me back a packet. The other is generally in better shape except the back by the collar is damaged. looks like someone scuffed/pealed the skin off in about a 2"x3" patch, which puts that one in need of a whole back panel. To me, they seem over priced for what's there.
Fried Osterman Co. US Navy Flight Leather Jacket M-422A 1406-A | eBay
Original WW2 M422A Navy Flight Jacket - Rare Large Size | eBay

Anyone's thoughts?

bseal. Budget is flexible. However, it appears to me that the cost of an upper end repro approaches what a full blown restoration of an original would run. That seems like a lot of money to honor a memory with a jacket that I'll rarely wear. If there is a decent quality for a more reasonable price, I'd be more amenable. Otherwise, I'll keep looking for a restorable original. I'm not concerned with sleeve length. The jacket can always be shortened. What sleeve length did you have in mind?

 

[Jorgeenriqueaguilera]

Yes, originals can be a bit pricey, but another good option would be a pre-owned high end reproduction. Keep checking on ebay, you just have to be patient. Also, you can try some flight jacket related facebook groups. (Suit up!, Original & Reproduction USN/USMC Flight Jackets, etc.)

 

[Kermit3D]

A bit expensive but it's an original that seems to be in good condition.

Great Early WWII USN M-422A Flight Jacket, Size 44. All Original, Exc. Condition

Check out the deal on Great Early WWII USN M-422A Flight Jacket, Size 44. All Original, Exc. Condition at Flying Tiger Antiques Online Store

www.flyingtigerantiques.com

 

[tda003]

Kermit3D. Thanks very much. Just bought it!

 

[Kermit3D]

Kermit3D. Thanks very much. Just bought it!

Oh, I'm so glad I could help you.
Does the size fit your measurements (don't rely on the size on the tag) ?
I can't wait to see pictures once you receive it.

 

[Jorgeenriqueaguilera]

Congrats! You def can't beat an original!!

 

[tda003]

Should fit well. Will post pictures when it arrives. Also pictures of my restored G-1 when it arrives and my restored B-3 when it arrives. Additionally, I have an A-2 by Cooper which I had repaired and a name tag for my daughter being sewn on. I'll show pictures of the repair before I send it off to have her business logo painted on front and back as a Christmas present for her. (Don't let the cat out of the bag.)

 

[Kermit3D]

The story of the cat and the bag made me laugh (I am French and none of our expressions look like that)

 

[tda003]

"Don't let the cat out of the bag" = "Don't spoil the secret."

 

[entertainment]

John Chapman also makes beautiful M-422 :
(In a typical John Chapman pose : the right arm slightly bent, looking at the horizon )

That last photo is my jacket!

 

[B-Man2]

That last photo is my jacket!

Love the way the jacket and collar change color in different types of light .

 

[leper-colony]

A bit expensive but it's an original that seems to be in good condition.

Great Early WWII USN M-422A Flight Jacket, Size 44. All Original, Exc. Condition

Check out the deal on Great Early WWII USN M-422A Flight Jacket, Size 44. All Original, Exc. Condition at Flying Tiger Antiques Online Store

www.flyingtigerantiques.com

Ron's a good guy who knows his stuff. Yes, his priced tend to be higher end.

 

[bseal]

I was fortunate to be at the right place at the right time:

 

[tda003]

Pictures of M-422A from website. More when I finally get it.

 

[tda003]

Stated to be Gordon & Ferguson Co.