Ralph Lauren Vintage Jacket

Item:
Vintage Polo by Ralph Lauren Corduroy Bomber Jacket

Manufacturer:
Polo by Ralph Lauren
Made in Singapore (tag detail suggests late 1980s to early 1990s manufacture)

Material:

• Wide-wale corduroy (cotton or cotton blend)
• Ribbed elastic waistband and cuffs
• Interior: red/green tartan flannel lining
• Trim: buttoned collar tab, flap pockets, YKK zipper (notable for durability)

Condition:
Good vintage condition — all original buttons intact, zipper fully functional, minimal wear (slight fraying noted at high-contact points like cuffs or seams). No major stains or structural damage visible.

Design Notes:
This jacket reflects Ralph Lauren's iconic blend of preppy Americana with classic British sportswear influences. The tartan lining and corduroy shell reference 1940s-50s English hunting jackets, while the bomber silhouette adds a distinctly American and more casual edge. The Singapore manufacturing origin corresponds with RL’s international production shift in the late 1980s through early 1990s.

Collector Interest & Value

Historical Interest:
This jacket likely comes from the late 1980s to early 1990s Polo Sport or core Polo Ralph Lauren line, during a period when the brand enjoyed peak influence in both prep fashion and emerging streetwear scenes. Items from this era are gaining traction with collectors due to their quality and nostalgia value.

Estimated Market Value (2024):

• Current Resale Value: $150–$300 USD
• Value if Mint/Deadstock: $350–$500+
• Insurance Estimate (Replacement): $400 USD

Values are influenced by the rarity of the design, the revival of vintage Ralph Lauren aesthetics, and ongoing demand for quality heritage menswear.

Authentication Notes

• The original Polo tag with “Made in Singapore” is period-authentic.
• YKK zipper aligns with Ralph Lauren construction standards.
• The tartan lining, corduroy type, and collar tab style match archival examples from the late '80s.

If you ever wanted to further authenticate or archive this piece formally, a professional fashion appraiser or vintage menswear dealer (e.g., What Comes Around Goes Around or Grailed-approved sellers) could confirm exact collection provenance.

Conclusion

This vintage Ralph Lauren jacket is an excellent example of late 20th-century American menswear design and a wonderful heirloom. While not for sale, its current value, quality, and unique character make it a collectible and wearable piece. Proper storage (e.g., breathable garment bag, avoiding sunlight and wire hangers) will help preserve its value for years to come.