Vintage 1940s French Leather Workwear Jacket Vitex Zipper

This French leather workwear jacket dates to the late 1940s and reflects the practical construction typical of European garments produced in the years immediately following the Second World War. Jackets of this type were made for everyday industrial use, worn by mechanics, drivers and tradesmen who required durable outerwear capable of withstanding regular work.

The jacket is cut from substantial brown leather and follows a straightforward utilitarian pattern. The front closes with a metal zipper and the chest features two angled zipped pockets set into a horizontal upper panel. Two slanted hand pockets sit lower on the body, positioned naturally for everyday use. The overall proportions are generous through the chest and body, consistent with garments designed to be worn over working clothes.

The main front closure is fitted with a Vitex metal zipper, hardware commonly encountered on European garments produced during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Details such as these help place the jacket within the immediate post war period of production.

Across the back the construction remains simple and robust with a clean panel layout. The leather itself has developed natural creasing and tonal variation through decades of use, giving the surface a depth and texture characteristic of mid century workwear hides.

The interior is lined with a checked wool blanket lining, providing warmth and structure. The sleeves are finished in striped cotton lining to allow easy movement when worn over other garments. One inner sleeve lining has been replaced during the jacket’s lifetime to maintain strength and wearability.

The jacket has been professionally cleaned using specialist leather techniques to remove decades of accumulated dirt and surface grime. It has then been carefully conditioned in the workshop to support the leather’s flexibility and preserve its natural patina. The wool body lining remains in very good condition with only natural signs of age. The leather shows honest wear including light abrasions, subtle creasing and some chapping along the neck edge, while the cuff hems have been strengthened at these high stress areas. All wear is consistent with a genuine working garment of this period.

Garments like this were produced as functional equipment rather than fashion pieces. Surviving examples now offer a clear insight into mid century European workwear construction.

Key Identifying Features

• Vintage late 1940s French leather workwear jacket
• Heavyweight brown leather construction
• Original Vitex metal front zipper
• Two angled zipped chest pockets
• Two slanted hand warmer pockets
• Classic French workwear collar
• Clean back panel construction
• Checked wool blanket body lining
• Striped cotton sleeve linings
• Natural age related patina throughout

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

Chest (Armpit to Armpit): 24.5 inches
Underarm to Cuff: 17 inches
Shoulder to Cuff: 25 inches
Across Shoulders: 21.5 inches
Back Length (Bottom of Collar to Hem): 29 inches

Best suited for approximately a 44 inch regular chest. Large frame. Please compare these measurements with a jacket you already own to ensure the best fit.