1950s Reed Moto Jacket

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Leather jacket brand is Reed (not Buco)

Condition:
Excellent vintage condition for its age. Professionally restored in 2023 and structurally renewed for long-term wear.

The jacket was completely disassembled and re-sewn by Johnson Leathers (San Francisco). All original cotton stitching was removed and replaced with modern high-tensile synthetic thread to eliminate dry rot risk and ensure long-term durability.

All zippers function properly and all pulls are original.
Leather shows normal age-appropriate wear but no cracking, no dry rot, and no structural weakness. The hide remains strong, thick, and fully wearable.
Stored carefully in a smoke free, pet free home.

Description:
Vintage Reed Sportswear (Detroit) black leather motorcycle jacket, likely dating to the 1950s based on original Robin Samson hardware.

Reed Sportswear produced durable American leather garments throughout the mid-century period. The weight of the hide, construction, and hardware reflect classic American moto design from that era.

This jacket features original Robin Samson zippers, hardware commonly found on American garments from the 1940s through the late 1950s. Their presence supports a pre-1960 production window. All hardware remains fully functional and original.

The jacket retains its original silhouette and proportions while benefiting from expert restoration. The interior lining was fully replaced during the 2023 restoration.

The leather has been consistently conditioned. It remains thick and mildly rigid, typical of true moto-weight hides. This is not soft fashion leather. It is substantial, structured, and built to age with character.

Provenance:
Originally owned by my uncle, a motorcycle enthusiast in San Francisco during the 1960s and 1970s.

Details:
• Reed Sportswear (Detroit)
• Likely 1950s era
• Original Robin Samson zippers
• Genuine leather shell
• Thick, structured moto-weight hide
• Fully restored in 2023
• Re-sewn with modern synthetic high-tensile thread
• Interior lining professionally replaced
• Restoration by Johnson Leathers (San Francisco)
• Made in USA

Fit:
No tagged size. Fits Large to XL.
I am 6’3”, 225 lbs and typically wear XL. Fits comfortably with room through chest and back.

Measurements:
• Chest: 24 in
• Shoulders: 20 in
• Sleeve: 26 in
• Back length: 28 in

Keywords:
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