Calling all vintage Barbour experts

[basho]

I'm thinking of getting a Barbour Beaufort - either new or vintage. I've seen a few mentions that one made pre-2004 are better -- especially that the color and depth of the thornproof fabric is better on these (tho I suppose this is completely subjective). What do you think? Also, the pre-2004 ones lack the tacky Barbour embroidered logo and have snap-ins for the liner instead of zips (zips seem better to me, tho).

Here's a vintage one from ebay:

Also, what's your opinion on appropriate sizing? I tried some on at Orvis today. I'm a 36 chest. The 36 Beaufort fit kinda sack-like, but I believe this is how it's meant to be. Sizing down to a 34 made the sleeves too short, and felt a little too hipster. Thoughts? Thanks.

 

[nomad]

By no means an expert but I own a pre 2004 classic beaufort, would really really choose it over the newer ones with the logo, the colours a bit more weathered but that's how I like it. About the sizing I'm not certain but I think the sleeves are meant to be slightly short. I was wondering what the difference between the classic and the original beaufort was and after a bit of searching, I understand that the classic uses Sylkoil and the original egyptian cotton.

 

[Gus]

If you are looking for a trim fitting jacket, you just won't get that with a Barbour. They have a boxy, sack-like cut. There is no way around it.

 

[SirWilliam]

Originally Posted by pocketsquareguy

If you are looking for a trim fitting jacket, you just won't get that with a Barbour. They have a boxy, sack-like cut. There is no way around it.
A lot of Barbour's new stuff is not made in England what that means in terms of quality I honestly do not know. I have 4 Barbour jackets and the two that are made in England do not really seem to be any different than the others. I wear a 36 and I have short arms and the sleeves fit perfectly so I would not size down. Also keep in mind that Beaufort was designed to be a hunting jacket so it will not be flattering. I have a Barbour Cowen Commando jacket and you can cinch up the waist which makes it look more fitted but it is still looks like a hunting jacket. If you want something more fitted take a look at John Partridge jackets...they are similar is style but the cuts are a lot better and they are better quality in my opinion. They are all hand made in England.

 

[Crane's]

I know nothing about new Barbour coats. Both of mine are from around 1995, one is a Beaufort and it is a helluva coat.

 

[larlev]

I just bought a vintage Barbour in a London market. Does anyone know how to get rid of a musty smell?

 

[Crane's]

Originally Posted by larlev

I just bought a vintage Barbour in a London market. Does anyone know how to get rid of a musty smell?

Hose it down with a garden hose and hang it outside in a breeze to dry. After that turn it inside out and spray fabreeze on the lining. After that get about 4 cans of wax and reproof it. BTW that will keep you busy for about half a day.

 

[Spatlese]

Originally Posted by pocketsquareguy

If you are looking for a trim fitting jacket, you just won't get that with a Barbour. They have a boxy, sack-like cut. There is no way around it.

psg, any thoughts on their contemporary line? Apparently designed 'with a slightly slimmer block' but I have no experience with them. Would be interested in some of the quilts, if they are cut trimmer.