Emerging from post-war France, this exceptional leather workwear jacket embodies the craftsmanship and ingenuity that defined the nation’s golden age of outerwear. Produced between the 1940s and 1950s, it represents a rare example of French utilitarian design — blending military influence with refined civilian tailoring. Constructed from full-grain vegetable-tanned cowhide and fitted with Eclair hardware, it captures the quiet confidence of mid-century French manufacture.
The leather has aged beautifully, its surface carrying a storied patina that tells the history of decades past. The hide is dense and strong yet soft to the touch, with a naturally distressed finish that has developed through genuine wear. This jacket was professionally dry cleaned to remove all bacteria and soiling, then carefully leather-cleaned and conditioned in-house using our own specialist formulas. The process nourishes the hide deeply, restoring suppleness and tone while preserving the original character and aged surface.
Inside, it features a remarkable removable real sheepskin vest liner, backed with a checked wool lining — a distinctly French design combining warmth, breathability, and versatility. The liner zips out easily, allowing the jacket to transition between seasons. With the liner in place, it fits as a medium (around a 42” chest), and as a large (around a 44” chest) when removed, with comfortable room for layering.
All original details remain intact, including Eclair zippers, side-entry hand-warmer pockets, a chest zip pocket, and button-tab waist adjusters. Every element reflects the pragmatic craftsmanship of its time — designed to endure, yet made with unmistakable French finesse.
Condition is very good vintage, showing natural distressing, wear along seams, and a rich aged patina throughout. The sheepskin and wool lining remain clean and structurally sound, and all zips function smoothly.
Key Features
- Vintage French leather jacket — late 1940s to 1950s
- Crafted from full-grain vegetable-tanned cowhide — strong, supple, and naturally patinated
- Original Eclair zippers throughout
- Zip-out sheepskin vest lining with checked wool lower section
- Button-tab waist adjusters and side-entry pockets
- Professionally dry cleaned, specialist leather cleaned, and conditioned in-house
- Condition: Very good vintage — naturally distressed with rich aged patina
- Fits medium (42”) with liner, large (44”) without liner — suitable for layering
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
- Chest (armpit to armpit): 24"
- Shoulders (seam to seam): 20"
- Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 25"
- Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 16.5"
- Back length (collar seam to hem): 29"
A beautifully preserved piece of French leather heritage — understated, functional, and authentically aged. This jacket carries the quiet strength and character that only decades of history can create, making it a true collector’s piece from Europe’s post-war era of craftsmanship.
