The M-65 Field Jackets
Our claim “Style for Watch Lovers” already tells you that we not only make watch straps. We aim for style wherever we may find it. With the iconic M-65 Field Jacket, this notion has made us create and present a limited edition of 25 customized jackets that carry as much history as devotion to a certain sense of style.
Transcending War to Become a Design Classic
All journeys start small, so after the initial inspiration hit us to engage with this classic piece of menswear, we sat down and took some notes on how the M-65 has been a part of our wardrobes. Both Bernhard and Giacomo have been wearing variations of the jacket for years now – from threadbare thrift store finds to hypermodern techwear adaptations.
Discussing these garments, it became clear that our fascination with them does not come from a militaristic point of view. What makes us love these designs is how they have transcended their combat roots and stood the test of time via their functionality in peaceful use, even becoming a pacifist statement rather than the war uniform originally intended.
“I love the collar and great material mix / patches on these vintage M-65 jackets. My favorite jacket design for a long time”
“I always had a soft spot for modern alterations like this Gore Tex version by Nike and vintage military styles in general like the Vietnam Fatigue shirt”.
Vintage or Bust
To truly honor the maverick spirit of the M-65, we had to source authentic vintage jackets full of soul as a blank canvas for our intended project. Now, it’s relatively easy to find one jacket for personal use – but to gain access to a number big enough for our project, we relied on Jean Paul, our partner since day one, and found the gates to militaria heaven.
Our quick trip to an Italian warehouse full of vintage army clothing not only made us some new friends, we were also able to hand-pick the right M-65 jackets ourselves. When the first package arrived back at the office, we laid them all out – and upon discussing our jackets, we also got inspired for our related M-65 watch strap and accessories collections.
Subtle Customization for a Convincing Look
We opted for only a slight customization of these jackets, as we believe they should keep their authentic vintage flair. However, as these garments were initially tailored for military use, the arms were always cut rather wide to allow for wearing a liner or a uniform without obstructing freedom of movement – practical, but not very attractive in terms of style.
The Fit
Thus, the first step in our customization process was to have all arms on all jackets tailored for a slightly more modern, tapered fit. This enhances the general great fit of the jackets as well as the look. The next step was even more a direct consequence of our great source material: these beautifully aged original M-65 jackets with their great details.
Jackets with Patches and Stitches
Patches are an important aspect of military clothing. Serving to individualize the uniform and often merit its bearer, they come in any form, size or colour. As each of our chosen vintage jackets had some individual facings, we soon decided they were in need of a unifying symbol courtesy of Bulang and Sons to really make it “our” collection.
The decorative and playful patch on the upper right arm stands for our commitment to design. The added embroidery on the left sleeve is intended to be more of an ideological one: Inspired by the famous hands on Military Submariners, this specially designed Bulang and Sons blazon plays with the position of the watch beneath and works as a secret hint which may only be understood by like-minded watch enthusiasts with an eye for detail.
Custom Vintage M-65 Field Jackets
These Buttons Are Made For Wearing
The M-65 has long been a canvas for the most diverse buttons, from military-issued badges to the pins of the veterans protesting the Vietnam war right through the youth cultures of the 80s up to today’s “anything goes” streetwear attitude. And they’re fun! So we just had to come up with our own range of cheeky buttons for the M-65 collection.
We love watches and have made them our business, which can be quite intense at times. It’s helpful to have a little laugh about it all once in a while. That’s why the buttons poke fun at common topics within the watch game. It’s up to you which of them matches your spirit or personal connection – the sets come with the jackets and are also sold separately.
Full Jacket Package
Each of the 25 vintage M-65 jackets has been thoroughly inspected, professionally cleaned, re-tailored, embroidered and is ready to be worn. Each jacket has received its very own number on a canvas tag on the inside and is accompanied by a vintage military laundry bag which has also been individualized with the same number out of 25.
Please bear in mind that each of these jackets is at least twenty to thirty years old. Some fading and spots are an integral part of the individual character of each piece. Just like with a vintage Submariner, these details from years of usage are what make every individual jacket special – and it will only get better with the markings of your future wear.
Feel free to check out our limited edition of 25 Custom Vintage M-65 Field Jackets and remember: No War Just Style!
