1950s French Leather Industrial Workwear Jacket

Produced in the years following the Second World War, this French leather utility jacket reflects a period when rebuilding was practical, physical and urgent. Across France, skilled tradesmen, mechanics and yard workers relied on garments like this for daily protection in workshops and industrial settings. Leather offered durability, weather resistance and longevity in an era where replacement was neither easy nor expected.

The cut is straightforward and purposeful, with a clean collar, zip front and angled hand pockets typical of mid century French workwear. The silhouette is balanced and unfussy, designed for movement rather than display.

The brown leather carries strong natural character throughout. High contact areas across the sleeves and pocket edges have developed a warm burnished tone, while the main panels retain depth and structure. The hide remains supple and stable with no thinning or structural weakness. Seams are secure and the overall construction is sound.

The front zipper was replaced during its working life and is now fitted with a Riri zip. The puller remains original and stamped Eclair, Made in France, reflecting practical period maintenance rather than modern alteration. There is a small fray at the base near the insert, visible in the photographs. The zip engages and runs, though it should be operated with care. It is currently functional and does not require immediate replacement, but this is noted for full accuracy.

Cuffs retain their original button adjustment tabs. The back construction allows ease of movement through the shoulders, consistent with workshop use. Inside, the jacket retains its original zip out lining in a dark woven check. The lining shows two period patch repairs at the hem, but remains structurally sound overall.

This jacket has been specialist leather cleaned in the workshop to remove decades of soiling and odours. It has been professionally conditioned using our own workshop blend leather dressings, applied sparingly to preserve suppleness without altering the natural character of the hide. It presents clean, stable and ready for careful wear.

As with all period leather garments, this piece is best suited to collection, display and occasional use rather than heavy daily wear.

An increasingly scarce example of post war French leather workwear, preserved with honesty and restraint.

Key Identifying Features

• 1950s French leather workwear utility jacket
• Post war industrial workshop garment
• Rich brown mid weight leather construction
• Replaced Riri front zip
• Original Eclair Made in France zip pull
• Angled front hand pockets
• Button adjustable cuff tabs
• Specialist leather cleaned
• Strong seams and stable structure throughout

Garment Measurements Laid Flat

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 27.5"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 20
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 24.5"
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 16"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 32

Best suited to a 46 inch chest/ XL frame. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure correct fit.