Vintage 1950s French Leather Motorcycle Jacket Éclair Zippers

Purposeful and unmistakably European in its character, this mid century French motorcycle jacket reflects a period when riding gear was built primarily for protection and practicality. Produced during the years when motorcycles formed an essential part of everyday transport across post war France, jackets like this were designed to shield riders from wind and weather while allowing freedom of movement in the saddle.

The jacket follows a classic French motorcycling silhouette, cut short through the body with a belted waist that allows the fit to be tightened securely when riding. The asymmetric front zip closes across the chest to reduce wind penetration, a practical configuration commonly seen on European motorcycle jackets of the period. Across the front sit two distinctive pockets, a slanted snap pocket at the chest and a vertical zipped pocket positioned for access while seated on a motorcycle.

The hardware is particularly notable. The jacket retains its original Éclair zippers, a historic French fastener manufacturer founded in 1924 near Rouen. Éclair became the dominant zipper producer in France throughout the mid twentieth century, and their fasteners are widely used today as a reference point when dating vintage French garments. During the 1940s through the 1970s Éclair zippers appeared across workwear, aviation clothing and luxury leather goods, making them one of the most recognisable details of authentic French outerwear from the era.

The waist is secured by an integrated leather belt which fastens through a large D ring buckle, a robust and utilitarian detail commonly associated with European motorcycle and police inspired jackets of the period. The overall construction reflects the practical engineering of garments intended for riders who relied on their clothing daily.

The leather has a smooth, supple character with a natural grain that has developed gentle creasing through decades of wear, giving the jacket depth while maintaining flexibility and comfort. Jackets of this type were designed to be practical riding garments, balancing protection with ease of movement.

Inside, the jacket is lined with a traditional plaid wool lining which provides warmth while remaining breathable when worn. Linings of this type were commonly used in civilian motorcycle jackets produced across France during the 1950s.

The jacket has been professionally cleaned and conditioned to ensure it is ready to wear. The leather remains strong and supple with natural creasing and signs of age consistent with a well preserved vintage garment. The original Éclair hardware remains in place and functions as intended. The lining shows age related wear and has been repaired where necessary to maintain integrity while preserving the character of the jacket.

A compelling example of post war French motorcycle clothing, representing a period when riding gear was designed for real use rather than fashion. Pieces of this type are becoming increasingly scarce today and remain highly sought after by collectors of European motorcycle jackets.

Key Identifying Features

• Vintage French motorcycle jacket
• Likely dating to the 1950s
• Supple black leather construction
• Asymmetric motorcycle front zip
• Original Éclair zippers
• Integrated waist belt with D ring buckle
• Slanted snap chest pocket
• Vertical zipped chest pocket
• Plaid wool interior lining
• Professionally cleaned and conditioned

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest (Armpit to Armpit): 24"
• Shoulders (Shoulder Seam to Shoulder Seam): 22"
• Sleeve Length (Shoulder to Cuff): 25"
• Sleeve Length (Underarm to Cuff): 17.5"
• Back Length (Collar Seam to Hem): 25"

The jacket is best suited to approximately a large frame 44 inch chest. Please compare the measurements with a similar garment to ensure the correct sizing.