German WW2 Luftwaffe Erich Hartmann Flying Jacket Fighter Pilot
A sharply cut Eastman "Eric Hartmann" jacket in black capeskin, built with a close, controlled silhouette that sits neatly at the waist. The profile is compact and deliberate, with a clean, structured line through the body that reflects its aviation origins and gives the piece a distinct, purposeful presence. The design draws from the short leather jackets worn by Luftwaffe fighter pilots during the Second World War, most closely associated with Major Erich Hartmann.
Credited with 352 aerial victories, Hartmann remains the highest-scoring fighter ace in history. Originally civilian cyclists' jackets, these garments were adopted by pilots for their close fit, lighter weight and ease of movement. As a result, original examples vary in detail depending on maker and personal preference. Eastman's interpretation stays true to that spirit, capturing the proportions and feel rather than overworking the design.The capeskin is soft, responsive and well balanced, with a natural grain that gives subtle movement across the surface. It carries a deep, even black tone, with gentle variation through the panels that adds depth without appearing over-finished.
In hand, it feels light and flexible, yet durable, with enough structure to hold its shape. Original RiRi zippers are fitted throughout, finished in a muted tone with contrasting cotton tape consistent with period examples. The action is smooth and precise, sitting cleanly within the jacket without distraction.
The collar is neatly shaped and sits close to the neck, while the zipped chest pockets and lower flap pockets give the jacket a balanced, functional layout. Inside, the jacket is lined in wool plaid through the body with cotton in the sleeves, reflecting the variation seen across original Luftwaffe jackets, which were produced by multiple makers and often differed slightly in detail. Construction is clean and assured throughout, with well-cut panels and strong seam work maintaining the structure of the jacket without excess. The cuffs have been carefully adapted in the workshop to relieve the tightness often found in this area. The button position has been subtly moved towards the edge of the cuff, easing the fit at the wrist while preserving the original line and overall balance of the jacket. This Eastman "Eric Hartmann" capeskin jacket presents in very good condition, with a clean, well-kept surface and a natural, understated character throughout. The leather remains soft, supple and structurally sound, with light, even creasing through areas of movement that reflects careful wear. The wool lining is clean and intact, and all seams remain secure. The original RiRi zips function smoothly throughout. The pocket and cuff buttons have been professionally replaced where missing, carried out in keeping with the original style and without disrupting the balance of the jacket. The jacket has been professionally cleaned and lightly conditioned in the workshop, restoring suppleness while preserving the original tone, finish and integrity of the leather. A well-preserved and highly collectable example.Eastman Leather Clothing "Eric Hartmann" jacket. Inspired by WWII Luftwaffe pilot jackets. Named after Major Erich Hartmann. Original RiRi zippers with period-correct cotton tape. Wool plaid body lining with cotton sleeve lining.
Chest armpit to armpit: 21.5". Shoulders seam to seam: 20".
Sleeve length shoulder to cuff: 26". Sleeve length underarm to cuff: 19.5". Back length collar seam to hem: 25.5" Best suited to a 36" regular or a 38 chest, in line with the labelled sizing, offering a slim, close-cut fit. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure an accurate fit. A workshop in the South Pennines specialising in restored vintage leather garments.