The blouson that rewrote the rules of rebellious style

When Schott NYC introduced the Perfecto in 1928, they didn’t just create a jacket—they forged an icon. The PERFECTO 118 NOIR is the modern evolution of that legend, crafted in full-grain cowhide with a rich, semi-matte finish that only improves with age. This isn’t just leather; it’s 3-3.5 oz heavyweight cowhide, thick enough to withstand years of wear yet supple enough to mould to your movements. The 118 model refines the original with a slightly softer drape than its predecessor, the 618, while retaining the unmistakable DNA: asymmetrical zip, snap-button collar, and those signature shoulder epaulettes that have become synonymous with attitude.

A jacket built for movement, not just for show

Look beyond the rock ’n’ roll mythology, and you’ll find a blouson engineered for practicality. The back features action pleats for unrestricted movement, while zippered wrist adjusters and side pockets ensure functionality isn’t sacrificed for style. Inside, a quilted nylon lining (5.5 oz) provides just enough warmth for crisp autumn rides or chilly urban nights—without bulk. The length, a classic 66 cm (regular), strikes the perfect balance between coverage and mobility, making it as suited to a café terrace as it is to a motorcycle saddle.

Leather that tells a story

This isn’t a jacket that stays pristine—it’s one that evolves. The full-aniline finish, drum-dyed for depth, develops a unique patina with every wear, darkening in the creases and lightening where it flexes. The chrome tanning process ensures durability, while the natural grain of the cowhide guarantees each piece is one-of-a-kind. Over time, the brass-plated nickel hardware will acquire its own character, adding to the jacket’s lived-in charm. This is leather that doesn’t just age; it matures.

Schott NYC isn’t just a brand—it’s the birthplace of the motorcycle jacket as we know it. Founded in 1913 by brothers Irving and Jack Schott, the company patented the first zippered jacket in 1925 before introducing the Perfecto three years later. Originally designed for motorcyclists, the jacket was adopted by WWII pilots, then immortalised by Marlon Brando in *The Wild One* (1953). Today, Schott remains family-owned, still manufacturing its most iconic pieces in the USA using domestic hides and time-honoured techniques. The PERFECTO 118 NOIR carries that legacy forward—every stitch a nod to nearly a century of American quality manufacturing.

• Heritage construction: Full-grain cowhide (3-3.5 oz) with chrome tanning for durability and a supple, broken-in feel from day one
• Enhanced comfort: Softer than the 618 model, with action pleats at the back and zippered wrist adjusters for unrestricted movement
• Functional details: Two zippered side pockets, a chest pocket, and two interior pockets—all reinforced for daily use
• Signature styling: Asymmetrical zip, snap-button collar, and shoulder epaulettes, all finished with nickel-plated brass hardware
• Built-in warmth: Quilted nylon lining (5.5 oz) provides insulation without bulk, ideal for transitional weather
• Patina potential: Full-aniline finish develops a unique character over time, darkening in high-wear areas and lightening where it flexes
• Versatile length: Regular fit (66 cm) offers coverage without restricting movement, with a longer option (71 cm) available