Vintage 1940s Swedish Belted Leather Motoring Coat

Designed for the practical demands of mid century motoring, this late 1940s Swedish belted leather coat reflects the functional engineering of Scandinavian outerwear produced during the immediate post war period. With much of Europe rebuilding its manufacturing capacity, Sweden continued to produce durable leather garments for both domestic use and export across Scandinavia. Coats of this type formed part of the growing civilian motoring wardrobe of the era, offering warmth and protection for drivers and travellers navigating northern climates.

The coat follows a classic belted motoring pattern, combining practical tailoring with a strong, structured silhouette. A straight buttoned front sits beneath a broad collar, while the waist belt allows the coat to be adjusted for both shape and wind protection. The front features a functional four pocket layout with two vertical chest pockets and two slanted lower pockets positioned for easy access when seated. Shoulder epaulettes add a subtle military influence, a detail frequently seen on European leather garments produced during the years immediately following the war.

The leather itself is particularly notable, with an exceptionally soft and buttery handle consistent with fine calfskin. The surface displays a beautifully mottled vegetable tanned patina that has developed naturally over time, creating rich tonal variation across the sleeves, seams, belt and pocket edges. This depth of colour and texture is typical of well aged Scandinavian leather and gives the coat the kind of character collectors seek in authentic mid century garments.

Inside, the coat is lined with a woven wool plaid blanket fabric providing warmth and insulation. Linings of this type were commonly used in Scandinavian motoring garments, offering practical thermal protection during colder weather travel. The sleeves are finished with a smooth lining to allow the coat to slide comfortably over underlayers. The interior label reads C. E. Sämkåter, Säter, identifying the maker as a Swedish leather manufacturer based in the town of Säter.

The coat carries honest signs of age and use, with visible patina and surface character developed through decades of wear. The leather shows areas of tonal variation throughout along with light surface distressing and some minor areas of chapping, most noticeable around the shoulders and along certain seams. These marks are consistent with the coat’s age and long working life and do not detract from its overall integrity. The leather remains soft, supple and structurally sound, retaining the flexible handle characteristic of well preserved vintage calfskin. The original buttons and belt remain present, while the wool plaid lining shows only light wear consistent with age. The coat has been specialist leather cleaned and carefully conditioned so it presents well while remaining true to its original character.

It stands today as a strong example of post war Scandinavian motoring wear, combining practical design, beautifully aged leather and the understated craftsmanship associated with Swedish production of the period.

Key Identifying Features

• Late 1940s Swedish belted motoring leather coat
• Made by C. E. Sämkåter of Säter, Sweden
• Soft brown leather with buttery calfskin handle
• Beautifully mottled vegetable tanned patina
• Classic belted waist construction
• Four pocket front configuration
• Shoulder epaulettes
• Woven wool plaid blanket lining
• Smooth sleeve lining for ease of wear
• Specialist leather cleaned and conditioned

Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)

• Chest armpit to armpit: 23"
• Shoulders seam to seam: 19.5"
• Sleeve length shoulder seam to cuff: 26"
• Sleeve length underarm to cuff: 18"
• Back length collar seam to hem: 29.5"

Best suited to approximately a 42 inch chest depending on preferred fit. Please compare the measurements with a similar garment to ensure correct sizing.