Advice regarding FILSON Leather Aviator Jacket

I know next to nothing about aviator jackets, but I ran across this one from Filson that I'd like your advice about. I really don't care about authenticity in relation to the original model; I'm curious about methods of construction, quality, materials, etc. Also, where else might I get something similar that would be comparable? Is the Filson a good value, you think? Many thanks.




Leather Aviator Jacket
Style Number 712030
$595.00

Features

Classic aviator epaulets on each shoulder.
One-way antique brass zipper front with storm flap.
2 front flap pockets with snap closure.
Inside left open pocket.
2 hidden snaps for snap down collar.
Elastic knit cuffs and waitband.
Constructed from a single patch of leather.
Polyester lining.
Hand-distressed, washed cowhide is rugged and natural-looking.
Fabric
100% hand distressed, washed cowhide with 100% polyester twill lining.
Sizes
S, M, L, XL, XXL
Care
Professionally clean by a leather expert.
FAQ
Our hand-distressed Washed Cowhide Aviator Jacket is modeled after the A-2 leather flight jacket, one of the most classic and popular articles of military clothing ever designed. Awarded to U.S. Army Air Corps pilots upon completion of their basic flight training, the A-2 was worn with as much pride as their wings. First issued in 1931, it became a classic during its long service life and remained in use in every theatre of operations until long after WWII. Each C.C. Filson Aviator Jacket is unique, exhibiting the rich textural qualities of the hide from which it was made. 100% USA cowhide, tanned in Italy. Brass zipper closure with storm flap. Imported.
Country Of Origin
Imported

Filson makes great quality items so I'm sure their jackets are very well made. However its got a different vibe then some of the stuff on this forum and its probably not all that slim. Its a great jacket if you dig the aesthetic but I'd try it on before shelling out 600 dollars.

I'm sure it's very nice, but ^^ +1. The polyester lining is a little cheesy for $600, and I'm rarely a huge fan of distressed hide, even though that looks decent. Personally I don't see any significant difference compared to the surplus/repro A-2's available to justify the higher price of this one. The surplus and repro models are generally quite well constructed.

I've seen that one in person at the Filson store in Seattle and I wasn't very impressed. I love Filsons wool coats, they are excellent, but since they were bought out they have brought out a much broader line of imported items. Some are good, some are just ok. Considering the price, this one qualifies as just ok in my book.

When it comes to Filson, I'll stick to the US made wool coats. I love my Mackinaw Cruiser.

I was looking at getting a leather jacket from filson but decided against it for two reasons, its imported and it doesn't come in a tall size. I don't generally have a problem with buying imported clothing but the quality of the filson clothing is what justifies it's price and I'm not sure the quality would be as good as my u.s. made filson field jacket. I'm still looking, I probably won't buy until fall, but check this sight out: http://www.flightsuits.com/leather.html I'd appreciate any feedback if anyone has ordered from them.

I would ask the people over at Fedora Lounge's outerwear forum. They have a "interest" (some would say unhealthy obsession) in aviator jackets. You will probably learn more than you have ever wanted... http://www.thefedoralounge.com/forumdisplay.php?f=4