A rare survivor from late 1930s Germany, this trench coat was crafted for the civilian market by Peek & Cloppenburg’s Hamburg-Harburg branch—produced in an era when craftsmanship, durability, and restraint were the cornerstones of outerwear. With a silhouette informed by military tailoring but intended for private wear, it reflects the quiet authority of German civilian dress on the eve of the Second World War.
Constructed from heavyweight horsehide, the leather is dense and naturally weather-resistant, with the tight grain and rigidity typical of early 20th-century hides. Time has softened the original structure into a supple drape, rich with patina and tonal depth. Subtle creasing, softened edges, and a dry, low-sheen surface speak to decades of use. This is leather that has aged honestly—without artifice or imitation.
The coat’s design blends utility and refinement: a double-breasted front, deep notched lapels, adjustable wrist straps, and a full leather body belt that shapes the silhouette. A throat latch at the collar offers protection when fastened, while inside, a mole skin lining in navy provides warmth and structure. The neckline shows hand-sewn reinforcement—evidence of its working life and preservation. A brass interior pocket zip is stamped Elite, and the original Peek & Cloppenburg Hamburg-Harburg label remains intact, affirming its provenance.
This piece has undergone a specialist restoration process using advanced leather cleaning and conditioning techniques suited to historic outerwear. The hide has been carefully revived, preserving its surface character and flexibility without disturbing the original finish. Interior elements have been preserved with attention to their age and integrity. The result is a garment that is structurally sound, clean, and entirely wearable—without compromising its story.
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
Chest (armpit to armpit): 23 inch
Shoulders (seam to seam): 20.5 inch
Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 24.5 inch
Back length (collar seam to hem): 39.5
A serious garment from a serious time—civilian-made, wartime-informed, and preserved with depth and dignity. A standout piece of pre-war German leather tailoring, built to last and shaped by history.
