{"product_id":"vintage-ww2-raf-irvin-flying-jacket-links","title":"WW2 RAF Irvin Flying Jacket by Links, 1939–41","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"417\" data-end=\"890\"\u003eMade by Links on the eve of the Second World War, this RAF Irvin flying jacket dates to the early war period, circa 1939 to 1941. Links were a prolific wartime contractor, but examples from this early phase of production are increasingly difficult to find, particularly those retaining original manufacturer-specific details. This jacket reflects the earliest iteration of the Irvin pattern, worn by both Fighter and Bomber Command during the opening years of the conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"892\" data-end=\"1478\"\u003eThe jacket follows the early RAF specification, identifiable by its single-seam back panel, a hallmark of early production before later wartime revisions. The cut is compact and functional, designed to sit at the waist for use in the cockpit. The collar remains complete with its original leather fastening tab, with both corresponding metal rings present beneath. At the rear of the collar, the original black elasticated strap survives, allowing the collar to be secured when worn raised. This detail is frequently missing on surviving Irvins and is a strong indicator of originality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1480\" data-end=\"1849\"\u003eThe original waist belt is present and fitted with the distinctive large chromium-plated buckle associated with early Links manufacture. This hardware differs notably from belts used by other RAF contractors and gives the jacket a clear maker identity. The overall construction remains clean and purposeful, with no unnecessary alterations or later pattern compromises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1851\" data-end=\"2363\"\u003eConstructed from shearling sheepskin, the jacket displays natural surface wear across the leather, with grain variation and age-related markings consistent with early wartime use. The fleece remains dense and even throughout, retaining excellent insulating qualities and confirming the jacket’s structural health. The jacket has been professionally cleaned and carefully restored, with restraint applied throughout to preserve original materials, surface texture, and patina rather than attempt cosmetic renewal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2365\" data-end=\"2886\"\u003eThe main front zip is a period replacement fitted by Aero in Scotland, carried out sympathetically and in keeping with the jacket’s age and use. Both sleeve zips are original D.O.T examples, each marked with the Air Ministry crown and AM stamp, while the interior zip is the original Lightning fastener. The main zip and one sleeve zip retain their original leather pull tabs, an increasingly rare survival. All zips have been refurbished to their original brass finish, lubricated, and tested to ensure smooth operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"3317\"\u003eCondition is very good for an early RAF Irvin of this age. The leather shows honest wear consistent with service use, with no structural concerns. The shearling remains strong, the stitching sound, and the jacket presents as clean, stable, and fully wearable. Inside, evidence of the original label placement remains visible, and the original brass hanging chain at the neck is still present, another detail often lost over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3319\" data-end=\"3578\"\u003eEarly Links Irvins with this level of completeness are rarely encountered. This is a strong, well-preserved example that would sit comfortably in a Battle of France or Battle of Britain collection, offering both historical integrity and long-term wearability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3585\" data-end=\"3601\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3603\" data-end=\"4095\"\u003e• RAF Irvin flying jacket\u003cbr data-start=\"3628\" data-end=\"3631\"\u003e• Early WWII production, circa 1939–41\u003cbr data-start=\"3669\" data-end=\"3672\"\u003e• Made by Links\u003cbr data-start=\"3687\" data-end=\"3690\"\u003e• Single-seam back panel\u003cbr data-start=\"3714\" data-end=\"3717\"\u003e• Shearling sheepskin construction\u003cbr data-start=\"3751\" data-end=\"3754\"\u003e• Original waist belt with large chromium-plated Links buckle\u003cbr data-start=\"3815\" data-end=\"3818\"\u003e• Original elasticated rear collar strap\u003cbr data-start=\"3858\" data-end=\"3861\"\u003e• Original D.O.T sleeve zips with Air Ministry markings\u003cbr data-start=\"3916\" data-end=\"3919\"\u003e• Original Lightning interior zip\u003cbr data-start=\"3952\" data-end=\"3955\"\u003e• Period replacement main zip fitted by Aero\u003cbr data-start=\"3999\" data-end=\"4002\"\u003e• Professionally cleaned and sympathetically restored\u003cbr data-start=\"4055\" data-end=\"4058\"\u003e• Original wear and patina retained\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4102\" data-end=\"4138\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGarment Measurements (Laid Flat)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4140\" data-end=\"4342\"\u003e• Chest (armpit to armpit): 21.5\"\u003cbr data-start=\"4173\" data-end=\"4176\"\u003e• Shoulders (seam to seam): 20\"\u003cbr data-start=\"4207\" data-end=\"4210\"\u003e• Sleeve length (underarm to cuff): 21\"\u003cbr data-start=\"4249\" data-end=\"4252\"\u003e• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 24.5\"\u003cbr data-start=\"4298\" data-end=\"4301\"\u003e• Back length (collar seam to hem): 24\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4344\" data-end=\"4498\"\u003eBest suited to a 36 inch chest, with a close, period-correct fit on a 38 inch chest. Please compare these measurements with a similar jacket for best fit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Revive Restore Vintage","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54165024866627,"sku":"EB4976","price":995.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0786\/2232\/7107\/files\/IMG_3920.jpg?v=1770201923","url":"https:\/\/reviverestorevintage.co.uk\/products\/vintage-ww2-raf-irvin-flying-jacket-links","provider":"Revive \u0026 Restore Vintage","version":"1.0","type":"link"}