Vintage 1940s Swedish Military Leather Motor Coat Motorkavaj m/1915

Few pieces of twentieth century military outerwear carry the distinctive presence of the Swedish Motorkavaj m/1915. Designed during the early years of motorised military transport, this heavy leather coat was developed for Sweden’s motormän, the drivers and mechanics responsible for operating the army’s early cars, motorcycles and later armoured vehicles. Its design reflects a period when military garments were engineered with a clear purpose. Protection from wind, cold and the physical demands of operating machinery shaped every element of the coat’s construction.

This example follows the classic Motorkavaj pattern with its unmistakable double breasted front, broad storm panel and structured military silhouette. The overlapping front closure was designed to shield the wearer from wind when operating open vehicles, while the high fastening collar with throat tab allowed the coat to be secured firmly around the neck in harsh weather. Shoulder epaulettes reinforce its military character, while the inset waist pockets with protective flaps provide practical storage without interrupting the clean lines of the garment.

The coat is constructed from heavy Scandinavian goatskin, a material widely used in Swedish military leather garments for its durability and natural resistance to moisture. The hide displays a tight, even grain throughout with a deep tone and natural sheen that highlights the quality of the leather. Goatskin also retains flexibility in colder climates, an essential characteristic for soldiers operating vehicles in northern conditions.

Inside, the coat retains its warm wool body lining with smooth sleeve lining designed to allow the garment to slide easily over a uniform. The interior carries the original Beklädnadsfabriken Välleris manufacturer label, confirming Swedish production. A military inspection stamp bearing the Swedish Tre-Kronor emblem is also present inside the leather, a mark applied during government acceptance of issued garments.

Originally introduced in 1915, the Motorkavaj remained in service for many years and became closely associated with Swedish motor troops and later armoured units during the Second World War. Surviving examples are increasingly difficult to find today, particularly in strong original condition.

For a garment of this age the coat remains in remarkably well preserved condition. The leather retains excellent suppleness with a rich surface character and visible natural grain throughout. The structure of the coat remains strong, with the original lining intact and the overall construction clearly reflecting the durability expected of Swedish military issue garments. It presents today as a well preserved example of Scandinavian military leather outerwear suitable for careful wear, collection or display.

Key Identifying Features

• Swedish military leather motor coat Motorkavaj m/1915 pattern
• Heavy Scandinavian goatskin construction
• Classic double breasted five button front
• High fastening collar with throat tab
• Shoulder epaulettes
• Two inset waist pockets with flaps
• Warm wool body lining with smooth sleeve lining
• Interior Beklädnadsfabriken Välleris manufacturer label
• Swedish military inspection stamp with Tre-Kronor emblem
• Classic Swedish motor troop and armoured vehicle design

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest armpit to armpit: 25.5"
• Shoulders seam to seam: 21.5"
• Sleeve length shoulder seam to cuff: 28"
• Sleeve length underarm to cuff: 19"
• Back length collar seam to hem: 35.5"

Best suited for approximately a 46-48 chest. Please compare the measurements with a similar garment to ensure correct sizing.