Code: 55440
A fantastic original British rowing blazer which was made by 'F. W. Stevens' during the late 1930s.
This style of jacket became popular in the UK in the 1920s and formed part of many summer wardrobes. The style was adopted by many schools, universitys, clubs and associations in the following decades leading to the now being regarded as a classic garment which is quintessentially British.
The construction of the jacket is typical of the late 1930s and 1940s. It is made from a navy blue coloured wool material and features a single breasted front which fastens with two buttons. These are all brass examples with the rowing club initials and crossed oars, save for one which is a plain brass replacement which was made by 'Buttons Ltd'. Smaller versions of the rowing club buttons are fitted to each cuff. A white banding detail is fitted to the edges of the jacket as well as the pockets and cuff which give it a typical boating blazer look. The jacket is cut short in length which is a style referred to as 'bum freezer' and there is no rear vent - Both are again typical details from this period.
The interior of the jacket features a fully wool lining as it was intended to be worn in the colder months of the year. There is a single interior pocket with a maker's label stitched inside near the shoulder. It bears the maker's name of 'F. W. Stevens' below which is the original owner's name of J. D. B. Richardson. He went on to serve with the 1st King's Dragoon Guards and the photograph attached shows him leading a reconnaissance patrol with the 5th Army in Italy during WW2.
The jacket is a smaller size which will fit around a 36" chest depending on desired fit. When laid flat it measures -
Chest - 20"
Inside arm - 19 1/4"
Outside arm - 25"
Shoulders - 16"
Length at rear - 28 1/2"
The jacket is in good condition for its age with no serious damage or flaws. It displays well and is totally wearable but does have some limited staining which is most notable to the rear. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn item which has some flaws commensurate with age.
A lovely original late 1930s jacket with some great details and from a prestigious British maker.
