Polo Sport Sportsman Leather Jacket Appraisal
Category: Apparel
Description
This is a brown leather jacket, identified as a 'Polo Sport Sportsman' by the prominent label visible on the interior collar. The jacket features a classic bomber or aviator style with a full-zip front closure. The leather appears to be of substantial quality, exhibiting a rich, distressed brown color with variations in tone, suggesting a natural aging process or intentional finish to give it a vintage look. Visible physical characteristics include a structured collar, possibly a point or spread collar, and what appear to be two horizontal welt pockets on the front torso, one of which is clearly visible on the left side (from the wearer's perspective). The sleeves appear to have a standard set-in construction. The overall condition shows signs of wear consistent with use, including some creases, scuffs, and areas of lighter brown showing through the darker patina, particularly on the shoulders and arms, which is typical for aged leather and contributes to its character. There are no obvious tears or significant damage visible. The craftsmanship seems solid, with visible stitching along the seams. A white tag, possibly a price or inventory tag, is attached near the zipper. Based on the 'Polo Sport' branding, this jacket likely dates from the 1990s or early 2000s when this specific sub-brand was popular. The 'Sportsman' designation suggests a rugged, outdoor-inspired design, indicative of Ralph Lauren's stylistic themes. The interior lining is not fully visible but appears to be a complementary dark color.
Appraisal Report
Upon examining the Polo Sport Sportsman leather jacket, I assess its condition as good, consistent with age and use. The distressed brown leather exhibits attractive patina, scuffs, and creases that contribute to its vintage appeal rather than detract from it. There are no visible tears or significant damage, suggesting careful wear and storage. Authenticity, based solely on visual examination of the 'Polo Sport' and 'Sportsman' labels, appears strong. The design, material quality, and branding align perfectly with Ralph Lauren's Polo Sport line from the 1990s or early 2000s, a period when this sub-brand was highly sought after for its rugged, Americana aesthetic. The market for vintage Ralph Lauren, particularly iconic pieces like this, remains robust. Comparables are often found in the range of $300-$700 depending on condition and specific model. Factors significantly impacting value include the 'Sportsman' designation, which signifies a more curated and desirable collection within Polo Sport, and the overall excellent preserved state of the leather. Demand for these specific vintage Polo Sport items is high among collectors and enthusiasts of 90s fashion and Ralph Lauren heritage. Its relative rarity, especially in this condition, further enhances its value. It is crucial to note the limitations of remote appraisal. While authenticity appears valid from the imagery, full authentication would require an in-person examination to verify stitching quality, internal tags, material feel, and zipper authenticity. Provenance documentation, if available, such as original purchase receipts or detailed ownership history, would also strengthen the authentication process. Scientific testing is generally not applied to apparel of this type but could include material composition analysis if there were any doubts about the leather.
Appraisal Value
$600-900