Code: 55042
A scarce 1945 dated British Army camouflage tank suit in excellent condition.
This pattern of tank suit was introduced in 1945 and saw some use in the latter stages of the Second World War. It is based on the same design as was used for the tan coloured 'Oversuit, Tank Crews' but made using a material which has had the WW2 brushstroke camouflage pattern printed onto it. The suit is fully lined with a khaki wool flannel shirting material for warmth and there is a layer of kapok between this and the outer layer for the same reason.
The suit is fitted with brass 'swift' branded zippers to the front. One retains its original pendant shaped puller whilst the other has been replaced with a German 'Riri' branded example of the period. The fly zip is no longer functioning but is covered by a large flap so this is not a big issue. Green plastic buttons are used to secure the chest flap behind the main zippers and brass press studs are fitted throughout. The original brace straps are still present to the interior and have not been removed as is often found with these suits. The original waist belt is also present which again is often missing.
The outside of the suit features various pockets including a breast pocket which has a pen holder section to the front. There is also a First Field Dressing pocket located to the right hip and four map pockets are located to the legs, all of which fasten with press studs. There are straps to the end of each sleeve which also fasten with press studs.
As is usually found with these suits, the original manufacturer's label is located inside the right hand sleeve. It states the size as ‘Size No. 3’ which will fit up to a 36" - 38” chest and a 32” - 34" waist. The 1945 date is present as is the War Department broad arrow marking and the maker's name of 'C.W.S Ltd' which denotes The Cooperative Wholesale Society - Better known today as the Co-op.
The suit is in very good condition on the whole with only limited signs of wear and age. It is still very fresh and bright and displays well. There is a small area of damage towards the bottom of the right leg zip which is illustrated in picture 8. Please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a pre-owned, vintage item which may have small issues commensurate with age.
A very nice example of this hard to find pattern of tank suit, complete with a good clear label.
