Why do they look so different?

[ZuZu]

Much more interesting jacket as well - prior to the lawsuit Foster v. U.S. Gov., it seems like the Navy tolerated much more variety in the patterns, so a Cagleco is different from a Foster, is different from a Werber. Starting with 7823A, it seems like the contracts are a lot more interchangeable.

Legend has it that starting with the 7823A there was an official pattern that the Navy gave to the contractors.

 

[MoistDonuts]

They look different because the Ralph is made of cowhide and the Brill is goatskin. IMO, I would just be more patient until finding another in better shape. Both examples are in really bad shape. You don't want to buy problems, specially at 400$.

The L.W. Foster is not in good shape either, specially for 600$.

I bought it at $160, and got a rral mouton elsewhere so I could have the dynal replaced. I would've gone for something better/more expensive but unfortunately I didn't have the funds nor was my wife willing to spend $600+ while I was prepared to lol down the road I hope to buy a better one. For now as my 1st jacket, I think it's a fine compromise

I hope to buy a nice goatskin later on

On another note, I thought both of these 2 were cowhide since both are from the 70s? I believe the brill is from 73.

 

[Jorgeenriqueaguilera]

Cowhide started to be used in 75. Hope you enjoy it.

 

[MoistDonuts]

Cowhide started to be used in 75. Hope you enjoy it.

Ahh okay. Thought it was 70 or 71, thx!

 

[mulceber]

Ahh okay. Thought it was 70 or 71, thx!

The designation 7823E started in 1971, but they didn't immediately switch to cowhide.