Great Escape – Capt. Virgil Hilts

Experience cinematic legend with our replica of the iconic A-2 jacket featured in the 1963 classic war film, The Great Escape. Renowned among collectors and enthusiasts alike, the screen-used jacket was crafted by Rough Wear Clothing Co., most experts agreeing it originates from the W535-AC-27752 contract.

According to legend, the jacket was an original wartime piece hand-selected by the starring actor from a thrift source before filming. Some have suggested it underwent a depot re-dye, in which a darker tone was applied over its original seal-brown finish. To honor this history, our reproduction is crafted in Dark Seal Liberty horsehide, designed so that, with gentle wear, the surface patina subtly fades to reveal lighter undertones beneath—faithfully recreating the cinematic aged effect.

Every detail has been executed with immaculate workmanship, ensuring historical authenticity while delivering a garment of enduring quality that collectors and enthusiasts will treasure for a lifetime.

Our reproduction features:

• Shoulder decal depicting the Winged Star, the iconic “Hap Arnold Emblem” of the U.S. Army Air Forces
• “V. HILTS” nametag engraved in the correct period typeface
• Hand-painted Captain’s rank insignia
• Small AAF Winged Star wind flap decal
• “V. HILTS” name and Army Serial Number stenciled on the lining
• AAF Winged Star stamp on the lining
• Replica Western Costume Co. identification and size tag by Bill Kelso

Newly discovered evidence suggests that what previously appeared as a re-dye may simply have been a result of film processing, confirming that the jacket is true to the original seal-brown hue. For this reason, we also offer the jacket in authentic seal brown, allowing discerning collectors to choose the version they prefer.

The jacket on display is rendered in Liberty Horsehide Dark Seal, with dull orange lining and olive-drab stitching—a masterful recreation that fuses cinematic history, historical fidelity, and timeless luxury, designed to be worn and cherished for decades.