Here read tis, or just go to Indy's Diggs.

Posted by Sallah from h0010b5bf5601.ne.mediaone.net on February 26, 2001 at 19:32:13:

In Reply to: "...one of the most important decisions of your life"? (nm) posted by You gotta be kidding me on February 26, 2001 at 17:09:58:

Indy's Diggs

The One... True... Indy Jacket

" May I confirm that it was my company which made the jackets for Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in the Raiders films. I still have the original patterns and specifications which date back to 1980. I was originaly commissioned by Bermans and Nathan Costumiers to make the jacket which was one of my designs dramatically altered to fit the requirements of the film's designer and of course Mr. Harrison Ford himself. Over the three Raiders films I made a total of 48 jackets covering the stunt men, stand-ins and Harrison Ford, for whom we had made jackets before. Lucasfilms have licenced companies to make copies of the jacket but they are only poor imitations as I have always kept the original design. I can supply to you an original specification duplicate of the exact jacket worn by Harrison Ford. "

- Peter Botwright
Special thanks to Peter Botwright. Please visit the Wested Website, and when you email Peter Botwright, please use plain text format only.

What exactly is the Indy Jacket?
What's so great about this jacket? (a.k.a Testimonials)
What tips do you have for ordering?
Can you show me some pictures of the jacket?
What are the differences between the three versions of the jacket?
Doesn't Disney sell the same jacket?
If (eh...when) I get one, how do I care for it?
Where exactly in England is Wested Leather Company?
OK, I'm sold, so how do I order one of my own?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. What exactly is the Indy Jacket?
The Indy Jacket is an exact replica of the leather jacket worn by Harrison Ford in his portrayal of Indiana Jones. The original jacket is manufactured by Peter Botwright, of Wested Leather Company.
There are actually three jackets that can be manufactured, one for each of the movies. Each of the three jackets corresponds to the original specs for each respective movie. Their styles are very similar, but there are a few differences between the jackets. The most commonly ordered jacket is the Raiders Jacket.
Each jacket is made from lambskin (the finest parts used), and is extremely durable. In addition the jacket is very very soft. The jacket is currently shipped with a certificate of authenticity, however if you purchased your jacket before Wested started to include the certificates, you can contact Peter directly and he will send you one.

2. What’s so great about this jacket? (aka Testimonies)
This isn’t just any ordinary jacket...

Rick writes:
Hello~~
Just a few comments on the Indy jackets. I happen to own both, the original from Wested and the Disney clone. I've worn both over a long period of time and dare I say that the Disney jacket is the better coat! I've worn it on hiking/camping trips and I feel that the cowhide holds up better than than the lamb. the Disney clone also happens to feel "heavier" and holds up better in different kinds of weather (it seems to me to retain heat better). The one down-side is that only three sizes: small, medium and large are available, where-as the Wested jacket IS custom made. Both are fine jackets, but the Wested is now in my curio-cabinet, along with all the other Indy paraphenalia and the Disney jacket is what I wear when I feel like doing outdoor "Indy" activities. Please post because the Disney-Indy jacket seems to have gotten an undeserved bad rep! The lining of the Disney Indy Jacket has a cotton lining NOT satin acetate! It really is, in my humble opinion...the better jacket!

Rick

Major Paul writes:
Just got back from a trip to the Indonesian island of Bali and Singapore. In addition to the scuba diving and boogie boarding, I did do some cultural stuff which include visiting some of the incredibly old (8th century A.D.!)Hindu temples. One of the sites I visited was called Pura Dalem which means "Temple of the Dead". It's in this forest and populated by numerous monkeys. Since Hindu law forbids a non-Hindu from entering the inner grounds, I was sitting on the exterior wall looking inward and examining the stone carvings. One monkey ambled over and, forewarned, I gave him a small banana. He sat down next to me and I kept giving him bananas. When I ran out, the little bastard got angry, jumped on my back and bit me! Fortunately, I was wearing my jacket because he put some pretty good teeth marks into it. It hurt but at least he didn't reach my skin.
Monkey bite proof at the "Temple of the Dead". Now if that doesn't sell a Wested, I don't know what will! -MP

Michaelson writes:
Upon removing my jacket from the packaging and putting it on, it fit me like Peter had taken personal measurements from me, and made the jacket to my EXACT specs. It fit me perfectly with absolutely no adjustments of straps or otherwise. I cannot add anything else to what has already been said all through this forum except my surprise at the extreme light weight. To those who have ever picked up a pair of regular dress shoes, then picked up a high quality pair of Rockport dress shoes, you'll then understand the difference. Every seam, pocket, etc. was perfectly made. You can see the pride in the craftsmanship. The certificate that comes with it states it is indeed a duplicate of the jacket made for Harrison Ford for Raiders of the Lost Ark, and is signed by Peter Botwright. The posting we saw to Micah from him was true, and if you didn't get a certificate from him with your coat, I would indeed contact him for one. Regards. Michaelson
... for all of you folks out there who want to purchase one of these fine jackets, but have doubts, be assured that we are speaking the truth. Just ask any satisfied customer. These jackets are made of the finest, most supple dark brown leather, cut and stitched to perfection with the utmost attention to detail. Each one has high quality, heavy-duty bottons and zippers, as well as brass ring fittings with adjustable leather straps for sizing. There is an inside right breast pocket which is surrounded by leather, and is about 5 inches deep. The cargo pockets have snaps which are hidden under the front flap. Handwarmer slits located behind the pockets are designed more for holding the leather straps, rather than warming your hands. My hands only fit in after a brief struggle!!! And, as stated by our good friend Michaelson, these jackets are very lightweight and durable. They come with a beautiful sheen and the strong scent of new English leather. Be warned, whatever room you keep your jacket in will smell like leather for about three or four weeks!!! Too bad they don't turn it into a cologne scent!!! It would be called: Essence of Wested. Or something of that nature. And maybe each bottle would show a coiled bullwhip!!! I'd better get out of here.... But before I go, here's my shameless plug: BUY A WESTED LEATHER JACKET!!!
HANDMADE BY BRITISH CRAFTSMEN!!!!

I will say this in favor of the rich leather smell, you always know which room you left this coat in without even looking! Regards. Michaelson

Mike writes:
BELEIVE THE HYPE... it's true and then some!
The Indy Wested Jacket is a marvelous combination of craftsmanship, style, and quality. I am completely overwhelmed at how well this jacket was made. It is soft to the touch and has deep rich luster captured in the classic, elegant Indiana Jones style. This is the best grade of leather that I have ever seen, yet it is the perfect weight and is extremely durable.

There is an inner pocket that is deep enough to hold just about anything you may carry, and the hand warmer slits are perfectly placed. This jacket is cut to your specs so it fits the way you want it to, not like some off-the-shelf apparel. The side adjustment straps are ideal for giving the jacket the exact fit that you want with whatever you are wearing. The cargo pockets are deep yet subtle, and just blend into the jacket -- not flashy or silly looking like most leather jackets. You'll have to experience one to understand.

If you are blessed with the opportunity to own one of these, don't hesitate to buy what I consider to be the best leather jacket ever made... you've got to get a Wested! But don't just take my word for it -- after one look, one touch, and one wearing, you will understand the quality of workmanship that went into making this jacket -- and might I say, you may never take it off again.

Mike Davis

Dale Dassel writes :
Okay, I am a Wested jacket owner and here is my comment: This jacket kicks ass, and you can kick ass while wearing this jacket!!!

Bob writes: (a follow to his first post)
I noticed on the Jacket FAQ that there is an alternate commentary wrt the jacket that I wrote several weeks back when I first visited Wested in London. The article and the opinion expressed therein was very much from a first impressions point of view and my opinion on the jacket had changed dramatically since then. In short having taken the advice of Michaelson et al concerning different grades of leather, I now own a jacket and very pleased with it. I can therefore no longer support the opinions expressed in my original post.
regards
Bob

Bob's first post:
Hi Folks
I visited Wested leather a few weeks ago in London, with a view to ordering a Raiders jacket. This is a garment I have admired since I first saw the movie in 1981 and was further encouraged by all the good reports I have read from those (many from USA) who have received a jacket by mail order.
Folks I have to level with you....when I saw the jacket my heart sank, I couldn't believe this was the same item I have been after all these years. To say the materials used are thin, soft and light weight are (I'm sorry) gross understatement. I'm not trying to be negative here, but to those who have ever owned a leather jacket made from hide (this item is made from skin), you will be very surprised at just how (dare I say it) flimsy this jacket seems when viewed (and worn) at first hand. Incidentally this is the "Raiders" jacket, open storm flap unlike Last Crusade which had stud fasteners top and bottom.

On reflection it was in keeping with a similar experience I have had on seeing props from movies and TV shows at exhibitions (eg Star Wars, Star Trek etc)in Europe and The States. In essence what looks good on the big screen, more often than not looks distictly unimpressive when given close up or as in this case "hands on" inspection.

On the plus side the staff were very friendly and helpful, and I felt quite welcome to browse in the store. I realise the posts on this subject have been overwhelmimgly positive and that without exception other posters seem "thrilled" and "excited" etc with their jackets. Perhaps it was this that threw me, and contributed to the experience being such a let down. The above of course is just my opinion, everyones taste being different etc but I thought I would share my experience regardless.

Regards

Bob
* Please be sure to see Bob's rebuttle

INDIANA GJR writes: (a follow to first post by Bob)
I'm very surprised to here about your Indy jacket experience , but i must tell you i have worn many leather jackets before and nothing compares to the Indiana Jones Jacket. The jacket is more durable than cow hide but pretty much softer and easy as suede. The jacket will last for a very long time and is made of the highest quality lamb skin(i know this because of a leather specialist in the family) and from Westeds testamonials. I have had the jacket myself for some time and the older it gets the better it looks! Nobody can make the Indy jacket better than Wested. I will stand by my word untill other wise. From what i can tell , you were probably expecting a new, hard leather, hard looking jacket. Take care and i hope you change your mind because you really dont know what your missing!
INDIANA GJR

3. What tips do you have for ordering?
If you are ordering a jacket, take the following measurments before contacting Wested:

Shoulder to Shoulder
This measurment should be taken from the top of your shoulder to the top of the opposite shoulder.

Sleeve Length
This measurment should be taken from the base of the neck to the middle of your hand.
Height
This measurment is used to determine whether you will need a regular or long jacket.

Chest
This measurment should be taken from the middle of your chest, circling your back, and meeting the middle of your chest.

** Measurment Tip

Please note that each measurment should be conducted with a tape measure. If you do not have one available, use a piece of string to perform your measurments and measure the length of the amount of string used with a ruler!

Also consider that this jacket is custom made to fit the above specifications that you send to Peter. From the Indyfan Forum postings, it is clear that the jacket, as it is made to your exact specifications, fits you exactly. If you want additional slack or length in your jacket, you should consider ordering a slightly larger size, but most of all make this clear to Peter.

The jacket can be ordered in two colors: brown, and distressed. The brown color is brand new with no marks or scratches. If you order the brown you can let your jacket gradually weather over time. The distressed color is 'artificailly weathered' for you by Peter. To achieve the distressed look, Mr. Botwright says that they use a special dryer in which they put some large pebbles with the jacket into the dryer for a few minutes so that the rough stones rub off the outer layer of the leather. You can see this patina very well in the motorcycle chase in LC. You'll notice that the leather around the seams is a light brown and that there are a few 'nice' scratches in it.

You can also order this jacket in cowhide as opposed to lambskin. This adds significant weight to the jacket. Be sure to mention this if you want to order cowhide, as they will not mention it.

4. Can you show me some pictures of the jacket?
We thought you'd never ask... Please enjoy some images submitted by Max Schulte of the Indy Jacket in various positions and angles. Thanks Max!

basic front view (12K)
3/4 rear view, shoulder height (16K)
Wested logo inside jacket (8K)
side view, waist height (16K)
close shot of side buckle (11K)

5. What are the differences between the three versions of the jacket?
There are a few differences between each jacket. The sections below highlight the differences by each jacket. Peter maintains that he has the original specs for each respective jacket, and that you can order any one of them, however the most common order is for the Raiders Jacket.
Note: you can order either satin or cotton lining in your jacket, and when ordering your jacket make sure you let Peter know which options you want.

Raiders Jacket
The Raiders Jacket is the original production jacket and is the most commonly ordered jacket. Here are a list of the jacket's characteristics:
satin-acetate lining (better for cooler weather)
(cotton lining optional, both are authentic)
original smaller jacket collar

Temple of Doom Jacket
The Temple of Doom Jacket is relatively similar to the Raiders Jacket, with a few modifications. Here are a list of the jacket's characteristics:
cotton lining (better for warmer weather)
slightly longer than Raiders and Last Crusade jackets

Last Crusade Jacket
The Last Crusade Jacket has most of the changes from the original Raiders Jacket. Here is a list of the jacket's charateristics:
cotton lining (better for warmer weather)
buttons were added to the storm flap
jacket collar is larger than original

6. Doesn't Disney sell the same jacket?
No. Don't be fooled! Disney sells an "authorized reproduction" of the Indy Jacket at the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular show in the Wilderness Lodge Gift Shop. Peter Botwright maintains that he holds the exact original specs for the Indy Jackets, please see his comments.
The observations and reviews of the Disney jacket indicate that it is overpriced and inferior in quality to the one... true... Wested jacket! The Disney jacket is made of a thin cowhide, and costs $350.00, and also has a satin acetate lining. The Wested jacket, however, is made of lambskin which happens to be a much better quality leather than cowhide. Lambskin is much softer, and yet it it is still stronger. If you want Indy's true Jacket -- you'd better get a Wested...

7. If (eh...when) I get one, how do I care for it?
Peter Botwright recommends using a leather dressing called Leather Groom, by Letap, which is available through him, and sold by the can. The leather dressing is recommended every six months. Also, if your jacket gets unusually wrinkled (i.e. if it gets packed during a trip) Peter says that you can remove the wrinkles by either hanging it up, or better by wearing it as your body heat will help the wrinkles fall.

8.Where exactly in England is Wested Leather?
Hours of operation:
Wested Leather Company is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Directions:
To get there traveling from London, take a train from Liverpool Street station to Enfield Lock. When you come out of the station you are on Ordinance Road, simply turn right and continue along the road untill you come to the store. Its approximately a 4 to 5 minutes walk.
Thanks to Bob for the directions.

9. OK, I'm sold, so how do I order one of my own?
The following are the 'specs' for ordering the Indy Jacket from Wested Leather Company:

Ordering Specifications: Cost: £140 + £15 post/pac or $249 + $26 S/H
Payment Methods: Mastercard, Visa, or by cheque.
Sizes: 38-46 regular or long
(please include your height and any special sizing)
Delivery: Dispatched 14 days from order plus post time (about 10 days). The jacket is most likely to take about a month to arrive at your door. It is sent by US mail, and arrives in a large gray package.

Contact Information: Address: Wested Leather Co.
335/5 Ordinance Road
Enfield, EN3 6HE
England
Phone*: 1992-762-946
Fax*: 1992-700-476

* (From U.S., use prefix: 011-44) Thanks, Dale Dassel

* Also consider that an international call can be expensive, so it may be a good idea to work out the sizing details by email first if you are planning to call in your order. In addition, don't forget that England is 5 hous ahead of the Eastern Time Zone. Here is Peter Botwright's email.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This site is maintained by Michael Davis. Please send any additions, comments, or corrections. Thanks, and enjoy! :)

Follow Ups:

That wasn't my point... You gotta be kidding me 19:43:58 2/26/2001 (1)
- I'm only joking! Sallah 19:53:18 2/26/2001 (0)

Post a Followup:

Name:    
E-Mail:  
Subject: 
Comments:

: Indy's Diggs

: The One... True... Indy Jacket

: 
: " May I confirm that it was my company which made the jackets for Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in the Raiders films. I still have the original patterns and specifications which date back to 1980. I was originaly commissioned by Bermans and Nathan Costumiers to make the jacket which was one of my designs dramatically altered to fit the requirements of the film's designer and of course Mr. Harrison Ford himself. Over the three Raiders films I made a total of 48 jackets covering the stunt men, stand-ins and Harrison Ford, for whom we had made jackets before. Lucasfilms have licenced companies to make copies of the jacket but they are only poor imitations as I have always kept the original design. I can supply to you an original specification duplicate of the exact jacket worn by Harrison Ford. "
:  
:

: - Peter Botwright 
: Special thanks to Peter Botwright. Please visit the Wested Website, and when you email Peter Botwright, please use plain text format only.

: 
: What exactly is the Indy Jacket? 
: What's so great about this jacket? (a.k.a Testimonials) 
: What tips do you have for ordering? 
: Can you show me some pictures of the jacket? 
: What are the differences between the three versions of the jacket? 
: Doesn't Disney sell the same jacket? 
: If (eh...when) I get one, how do I care for it? 
: Where exactly in England is Wested Leather Company? 
: OK, I'm sold, so how do I order one of my own?

: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
:  
: 1. What exactly is the Indy Jacket?
: The Indy Jacket is an exact replica of the leather jacket worn by Harrison Ford in his portrayal of Indiana Jones. The original jacket is manufactured by Peter Botwright, of Wested Leather Company. 
: There are actually three jackets that can be manufactured, one for each of the movies. Each of the three jackets corresponds to the original specs for each respective movie. Their styles are very similar, but there are a few differences between the jackets. The most commonly ordered jacket is the Raiders Jacket. 
: Each jacket is made from lambskin (the finest parts used), and is extremely durable. In addition the jacket is very very soft. The jacket is currently shipped with a certificate of authenticity, however if you purchased your jacket before Wested started to include the certificates, you can contact Peter directly and he will send you one. 
:

: 
: 2. What’s so great about this jacket? (aka Testimonies)
: This isn’t just any ordinary jacket...

: 
: Rick writes:
: Hello~~
: Just a few comments on the Indy jackets.  I happen to own both,  the original from Wested and the Disney clone.  I've worn both over a long period of time and dare I say that the Disney jacket is the better coat!  I've worn it on hiking/camping trips and I feel that the cowhide holds up better than than the lamb.  the Disney clone also happens to feel "heavier" and holds up better in different kinds of weather (it seems to me to retain heat better).  The one down-side is that only three sizes: small, medium and large are available, where-as the Wested jacket IS custom made.  Both are fine jackets, but the Wested is now in my curio-cabinet, along with all the other Indy paraphenalia and the Disney jacket is what I wear when I feel like doing  outdoor "Indy" activities.  Please post because the Disney-Indy jacket seems to have gotten an undeserved bad rep! The lining of the Disney Indy Jacket has a cotton lining NOT satin acetate! It really is, in my humble opinion...the better jacket!

: Rick

: 
: Major Paul writes:
: Just got back from a trip to the Indonesian island of Bali and Singapore. In addition to the scuba diving and boogie boarding, I did do some cultural stuff which include visiting some of the incredibly old (8th century A.D.!)Hindu temples. One of the sites I visited was called Pura Dalem which means "Temple of the Dead". It's in this forest and populated by numerous monkeys. Since Hindu law forbids a non-Hindu from entering the inner grounds, I was sitting on the exterior wall looking inward and examining the stone carvings. One monkey ambled over and, forewarned, I gave him a small banana. He sat down next to me and I kept giving him bananas. When I ran out, the little bastard got angry, jumped on my back and bit me! Fortunately, I was wearing my jacket because he put some pretty good teeth marks into it. It hurt but at least he didn't reach my skin. 
: Monkey bite proof at the "Temple of the Dead". Now if that doesn't sell a Wested, I don't know what will! -MP

: 
: Michaelson writes:
: Upon removing my jacket from the packaging and putting it on, it fit me like Peter had taken personal measurements from me, and made the jacket to my EXACT specs. It fit me perfectly with absolutely no adjustments of straps or otherwise. I cannot add anything else to what has already been said all through this forum except my surprise at the extreme light weight. To those who have ever picked up a pair of regular dress shoes, then picked up a high quality pair of Rockport dress shoes, you'll then understand the difference. Every seam, pocket, etc. was perfectly made. You can see the pride in the craftsmanship. The certificate that comes with it states it is indeed a duplicate of the jacket made for Harrison Ford for Raiders of the Lost Ark, and is signed by Peter Botwright. The posting we saw to Micah from him was true, and if you didn't get a certificate from him with your coat, I would indeed contact him for one. Regards. Michaelson 
: ... for all of you folks out there who want to purchase one of these fine jackets, but have doubts, be assured that we are speaking the truth. Just ask any satisfied customer. These jackets are made of the finest, most supple dark brown leather, cut and stitched to perfection with the utmost attention to detail. Each one has high quality, heavy-duty bottons and zippers, as well as brass ring fittings with adjustable leather straps for sizing. There is an inside right breast pocket which is surrounded by leather, and is about 5 inches deep. The cargo pockets have snaps which are hidden under the front flap. Handwarmer slits located behind the pockets are designed more for holding the leather straps, rather than warming your hands. My hands only fit in after a brief struggle!!! And, as stated by our good friend Michaelson, these jackets are very lightweight and durable. They come with a beautiful sheen and the strong scent of new English leather. Be warned, whatever room you keep your jacket in will smell like leather for about three or four weeks!!! Too bad they don't turn it into a cologne scent!!! It would be called: Essence of Wested. Or something of that nature. And maybe each bottle would show a coiled bullwhip!!! I'd better get out of here.... But before I go, here's my shameless plug: BUY A WESTED LEATHER JACKET!!! 
: HANDMADE BY BRITISH CRAFTSMEN!!!!

: I will say this in favor of the rich leather smell, you always know which room you left this coat in without even looking! Regards. Michaelson

: 
: Mike writes:
: BELEIVE THE HYPE... it's true and then some! 
: The Indy Wested Jacket is a marvelous combination of craftsmanship, style, and quality. I am completely overwhelmed at how well this jacket was made. It is soft to the touch and has deep rich luster captured in the classic, elegant Indiana Jones style. This is the best grade of leather that I have ever seen, yet it is the perfect weight and is extremely durable.

: There is an inner pocket that is deep enough to hold just about anything you may carry, and the hand warmer slits are perfectly placed. This jacket is cut to your specs so it fits the way you want it to, not like some off-the-shelf apparel. The side adjustment straps are ideal for giving the jacket the exact fit that you want with whatever you are wearing. The cargo pockets are deep yet subtle, and just blend into the jacket -- not flashy or silly looking like most leather jackets. You'll have to experience one to understand.

: If you are blessed with the opportunity to own one of these, don't hesitate to buy what I consider to be the best leather jacket ever made... you've got to get a Wested! But don't just take my word for it -- after one look, one touch, and one wearing, you will understand the quality of workmanship that went into making this jacket -- and might I say, you may never take it off again.

: Mike Davis

: 
: Dale Dassel writes :
: Okay, I am a Wested jacket owner and here is my comment: This jacket kicks ass, and you can kick ass while wearing this jacket!!!

: Bob writes: (a follow to his first post)
: I noticed on the Jacket FAQ that there is an alternate commentary wrt the jacket that I wrote several weeks back when I first visited Wested in London.  The article and the opinion expressed therein was very much from a first impressions point of view and my opinion on the jacket had changed dramatically since then.  In short having taken the advice of Michaelson et al concerning different grades of leather, I now own a jacket and very pleased with it.  I can therefore no longer support the opinions expressed in my original post.
: regards
: Bob

: 
: Bob's first post:
: Hi Folks
: I visited Wested leather a few weeks ago in London, with a view to ordering a Raiders jacket. This is a garment I have admired since I first saw the movie in 1981 and was further encouraged by all the good reports I have read from those (many from USA) who have received a jacket by mail order. 
: Folks I have to level with you....when I saw the jacket my heart sank, I couldn't believe this was the same item I have been after all these years. To say the materials used are thin, soft and light weight are (I'm sorry) gross understatement. I'm not trying to be negative here, but to those who have ever owned a leather jacket made from hide (this item is made from skin), you will be very surprised at just how (dare I say it) flimsy this jacket seems when viewed (and worn) at first hand. Incidentally this is the "Raiders" jacket, open storm flap unlike Last Crusade which had stud fasteners top and bottom.

: On reflection it was in keeping with a similar experience I have had on seeing props from movies and TV shows at exhibitions (eg Star Wars, Star Trek etc)in Europe and The States. In essence what looks good on the big screen, more often than not looks distictly unimpressive when given close up or as in this case "hands on" inspection.

: On the plus side the staff were very friendly and helpful, and I felt quite welcome to browse in the store. I realise the posts on this subject have been overwhelmimgly positive and that without exception other posters seem "thrilled" and "excited" etc with their jackets. Perhaps it was this that threw me, and contributed to the experience being such a let down. The above of course is just my opinion, everyones taste being different etc but I thought I would share my experience regardless.

: Regards

: Bob
: * Please be sure to see Bob's rebuttle

: 
: INDIANA GJR writes: (a follow to first post by Bob)
: I'm very surprised to here about your Indy jacket experience , but i must tell you i have worn many leather jackets before and nothing compares to the Indiana Jones Jacket. The jacket is more durable than cow hide but pretty much softer and easy as suede. The jacket will last for a very long time and is made of the highest quality lamb skin(i know this because of a leather specialist in the family) and from Westeds testamonials. I have had the jacket myself for some time and the older it gets the better it looks! Nobody can make the Indy jacket better than Wested. I will stand by my word untill other wise. From what i can tell , you were probably expecting a new, hard leather, hard looking jacket. Take care and i hope you change your mind because you really dont know what your missing!
: INDIANA GJR 
:

: 
: 3. What tips do you have for ordering? 
: If you are ordering a jacket, take the following measurments before contacting Wested:
:  
:   Shoulder to Shoulder
: This measurment should be taken from the top of your shoulder to the top of the opposite shoulder.

:   
:  Sleeve Length
: This measurment should be taken from the base of the neck to the middle of your hand.
:    Height
: This measurment is used to determine whether you will need a regular or long jacket.
:  
:  Chest
: This measurment should be taken from the middle of your chest, circling your back, and meeting the middle of your chest.

:  
:  ** Measurment Tip

: Please note that each measurment should be conducted with a tape measure. If you do not have one available, use a piece of string to perform your measurments and measure the length of the amount of string used with a ruler!
:  
:  
: Also consider that this jacket is custom made to fit the above specifications that you send to Peter. From the Indyfan Forum postings, it is clear that the jacket, as it is made to your exact specifications, fits you exactly. If you want additional slack or length in your jacket, you should consider ordering a slightly larger size, but most of all make this clear to Peter.

: The jacket can be ordered in two colors: brown, and distressed. The brown color is brand new with no marks or scratches. If you order the brown you can let your jacket gradually weather over time. The distressed color is 'artificailly weathered' for you by Peter. To achieve the distressed look, Mr. Botwright says that they use a special dryer in which they put some large pebbles with the jacket into the dryer for a few minutes so that the rough stones rub off the outer layer of the leather. You can see this patina very well in the motorcycle chase in LC. You'll notice that the leather around the seams is a light brown and that there are a few 'nice' scratches in it.

: You can also order this jacket in cowhide as opposed to lambskin. This adds significant weight to the jacket. Be sure to mention this if you want to order cowhide, as they will not mention it. 
:

: 
: 4. Can you show me some pictures of the jacket?
: We thought you'd never ask... Please enjoy some images submitted by Max Schulte of the Indy Jacket in various positions and angles. Thanks Max!

: 
: basic front view (12K) 
: 3/4 rear view, shoulder height (16K) 
: Wested logo inside jacket (8K) 
: side view, waist height (16K) 
: close shot of side buckle (11K) 
:

: 
: 5. What are the differences between the three versions of the jacket?
: There are a few differences between each jacket. The sections below highlight the differences by each jacket. Peter maintains that he has the original specs for each respective jacket, and that you can order any one of them, however the most common order is for the Raiders Jacket. 
: Note: you can order either satin or cotton lining in your jacket, and when ordering your jacket make sure you let Peter know which options you want.

: Raiders Jacket
:  The Raiders Jacket is the original production jacket and is the most commonly ordered jacket. Here are a list of the jacket's characteristics: 
: satin-acetate lining (better for cooler weather) 
:    (cotton lining optional, both are authentic) 
: original smaller jacket collar

:  
: Temple of Doom Jacket
:  The Temple of Doom Jacket is relatively similar to the Raiders Jacket, with a few modifications. Here are a list of the jacket's characteristics: 
: cotton lining (better for warmer weather) 
: slightly longer than Raiders and Last Crusade jackets

:  
: Last Crusade Jacket
:  The Last Crusade Jacket has most of the changes from the original Raiders Jacket. Here is a list of the jacket's charateristics: 
: cotton lining (better for warmer weather) 
: buttons were added to the storm flap 
: jacket collar is larger than original

: 
: 6. Doesn't Disney sell the same jacket?
: No. Don't be fooled! Disney sells an "authorized reproduction" of the Indy Jacket at the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular show in the Wilderness Lodge Gift Shop. Peter Botwright maintains that he holds the exact original specs for the Indy Jackets, please see his comments. 
: The observations and reviews of the Disney jacket indicate that it is overpriced and inferior in quality to the one... true... Wested jacket! The Disney jacket is made of a thin cowhide, and costs $350.00, and also has a satin acetate lining. The Wested jacket, however, is made of lambskin which happens to be a much better quality leather than cowhide. Lambskin is much softer, and yet it it is still stronger. If you want Indy's true Jacket -- you'd better get a Wested...

:  
: 7. If (eh...when) I get one, how do I care for it?
: Peter Botwright recommends using a leather dressing called Leather Groom, by Letap, which is available through him, and sold by the can. The leather dressing is recommended every six months. Also, if your jacket gets unusually wrinkled (i.e. if it gets packed during a trip) Peter says that you can remove the wrinkles by either hanging it up, or better by wearing it as your body heat will help the wrinkles fall.

: 
: 8.Where exactly in England is Wested Leather? 
: Hours of operation:
:  Wested Leather Company is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

:  
: Directions:
:  To get there traveling from London, take a train from Liverpool Street station to Enfield Lock.  When you come out of the station you are on Ordinance Road, simply turn right and continue along the road untill you come to the store.  Its approximately a 4 to 5 minutes walk.
: Thanks to Bob for the directions.

: 
: 9. OK, I'm sold, so how do I order one of my own?
: The following are the 'specs' for ordering the Indy Jacket from Wested Leather Company:

: Ordering Specifications: Cost: £140 + £15 post/pac or $249 + $26 S/H 
: Payment Methods: Mastercard, Visa, or by cheque. 
: Sizes: 38-46 regular or long
: (please include your height and any special sizing) 
: Delivery: Dispatched 14 days from order plus post time (about 10 days). The jacket is most likely to take about a month to arrive at your door. It is sent by US mail, and arrives in a large gray package.

: Contact Information: Address: Wested Leather Co.
: 335/5 Ordinance Road
: Enfield, EN3 6HE
: England 
: Phone*: 1992-762-946 
: Fax*: 1992-700-476
:  
:   * (From U.S., use prefix: 011-44) Thanks, Dale Dassel

: 
: * Also consider that an international call can be expensive, so it may be a good idea to work out the sizing details by email first if you are planning to call in your order. In addition, don't forget that England is 5 hous ahead of the Eastern Time Zone. Here is Peter Botwright's email.

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: This site is maintained by Michael Davis. Please send any additions, comments, or corrections. Thanks, and enjoy! :)

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