December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 268:
Description
This lot features a rare and historically significant garment: an Original World War I French Aviators Leather Flight Jacket. The French Army Aviation Arm Aronautique Militaire pioneered leather flying gear, and their garments are highly sought after by early aviation collectors.
The jacket is constructed from supple, dark brown or black leather with a heavy patina and visible wear, consistent with use in an open cockpit. It features a utilitarian, mid-length cut with a striking double-breasted button closure utilizing large, dark composition buttons. The jacket includes a dark, contrasting cloth collar, likely corduroy or wool, designed for warmth. The design is simple, with vertical seam detailing and two slit hand pockets. The overall leather finish shows scuffing, creasing, and discoloration, confirming its genuine WWI-era veteran status.
The interior provides excellent provenance. The jacket is lined with a unique dark fabric featuring vertical white pinstripes. A key feature is the original sewn-in manufacturerÕs label, partially visible in an interior pocket, marked Klber with text confirming the quality CONFORTABLE SOLIDE and a trademark. This manufacturerÕs tag confirms it as a high-quality, period-manufactured garment.
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