The critically acclaimed 2020 Tom Hanks film "GREYHOUND" depicts warfare in the North Atlantic against German U-Boats in World War II.  Tom Hanks is a very dedicated actor who holds great personal admiration and respect for the WWII veterans, and as such he is very driven to achieve high levels of authenticity.  The production company for "GREYHOUND" hired our founder as a consultant because they were interested in the epitome of historical accuracy, and they primarily purchased our Buzz Rickson's U. S. Navy items because these items are world renowned as the last word in quality and authenticity.  If you see "GREYHOUND," our founder is credited on screen as a consultant and you will see nearly every minute of the film depicting the primary cast, including Tom Hanks, wearing Buzz Rickson's USN winter Deck Jackets, Pea Coats, and work shirts that were supplied in quantity, but we also supplied some quantity of this superb sweater.

The WWII U.S. Navy sweater was worn by sailors of all ranks in cold weather. With its trim cut, medium-weight knit and Navy Blue color, this simple, classic design is versatile enough to be worn with any number of clothing combinations, and looks fabulous with your favorite denim jeans or khaki chino trousers.

Naturally, our reproduction is made to the correct military specifications of the original sweaters of 1944 and is constructed from 100% worsted wool. The collar and cuffs, as per the original, have a different weave than the body of the garment and they are attached separately. We have even reproduced the famous Naval Clothing Factory label, which has been made on vintage shuttle looms and appears with a printed-on-cotton label designating the sweater size sewn just below it.

Available in sizes 36 - 48.  Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Imported from England

The A-1 sweater was designated as a Mechanic’s item even though it proved to be very popular with aircrew, largely due to its pullover design and great warmth (the lighter type C-2 zipper-front cardigan being the official aircrew knit garment). As per usual, this very, very rare item of WWII wearing apparel has been copied to a super-high standard of quality and authenticity. Particularly noteworthy is the intricate rib-and-rack weave found on the cuffs and waistband of the original examples that has been expertly copied on our sweater, along with the heavy-weight wool construction. Made from 100% worsted-wool yarns in the original light olive drab color, this is the perfect sweater to wear with your USAAF flying jacket, especially the A-2 or, better yet, fully outfitted as a master aviation crew chief mechanic with our D-1 Jacket. However, the practical design, great warmth and smart looks and color (earth tone) of this sweater cannot be overstated - it looks absolutely unique and fabulous worn just by itself with khakis or jeans and a thin black or white turtleneck layered underneath. You'll be amazed at how good you look in this sweater and how warm and versatile it is for nearly any climate, look or application. A classic in every way, and one not to be found elsewhere!

Available in sizes 36 – 48.  Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Imported from England

This sweater was standard issue to all aircrew personnel in the Royal Air Force during WWII, forever associated with Spitfires, Hurricanes and Lancasters. Classically worn under the sheepskin flying jacket or tunic, RAF aircrew favored the roll-neck sweater as one of the better items of issue clothing that could be worn as extra insulation under the sheepskin flying suit. So practical and comfortable was this garment for combat flying, even some USAAF personnel traded with RAF aircrew to obtain one for wear under their flying kit.

We have copied this highly desirable garment to our usual high degree of authenticity. Like the original examples, our sweater is made in England from 100% pure English wool in Ecru (unbleached white). It is knitted to exactly the correct spec:  two diamond-shaped cotton reinforcements are sewn inside where the collar joins the shoulder (just as on the original), a proper Air Ministry spec. label with king’s crown is woven in red thread on a white backing, and the rear portion of the knitted bottom skirt band contains a series of individual knots, with the number of knots designating the size of the sweater - a detail found only on an original sweater and ours!

This is the perfect companion to any of our RAF jacket styles or, as many RAF veterans will attest, just a good-looking classic sweater that can be worn with one’s gentleman’s attire or on its own.

Available in sizes 36 - 48.  Please see our SIZING TIPS for advice on how to get the correct fit.

Imported from England