Description
Introducing our exquisite Naval Dress Tunic, believed to have belonged to an Oberleutnant zur See. This remarkable tunic holds the equivalent rank of a Hauptmann or Rittmeister in the German army, or a Captain in the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, or USMC. In the U.S. Navy, it corresponds to the rank of a full Lieutenant.
This pair of tunics is truly fascinating in several aspects, and here we present the details of the dress tunic. In the U.S. military, this type of tunic is commonly known as a “dress mess tunic.”
The tunic features a shorter length, reaching only to the top of the stomach, unlike the Navy frock coat. It showcases a double row of five brass buttons on each side, each adorned with the fouled anchor and the Prussian crown. Unlike the frock coat, this tunic does not include shoulder boards. The rank of Oberleutnant zur See is indicated by two sleeve bullion stripes, with a bullion crown positioned above the upper stripe. The reverse side does not have a vent flap.
Examining the front of the tunic, we observe a small pocket on the left side. Above this pocket, three horizontal sewn-in loops are present, designed to accommodate a ribbon bar. Below these loops, two pairs of sewn-in loops are visible. One pair is likely intended for an 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class, while the other pair may hold a Navy wound badge or a similar Iron Cross-type award from another state. To showcase the tunic, we will display it with an Iron Cross 1st Class and an equivalent award from Oldenburg or another state.
Turning our attention to the interior, we find a complete black silk liner of the highest quality. The left side of the liner features a large pocket capable of holding various items. Near the neck, a tailor label from a distinguished “House Provider” catches our eye, indicating their service to royalty and other officers. The firm had offices in both Kiel and Wilhelmshaven.
In terms of condition, this tunic is in excellent shape, remarkably free from mothing despite its age of over one hundred years.
If you have an interest in acquiring both tunics, we are delighted to offer a special price (SKU 15-803 and 15-804).
