Thoughts on Eastman Star and Monarch A-2

Hey guys, first post in a long time. I’m debating between a Star A-2 and Monarch A-2, both by Eastman. I’m leaning towards the Monarch as I don’t have a russet A-2. But my concern is getting a lighter shade of russet, which I’m trying to avoid. I would prefer a dark russet. The seal on the Star looks great but it might be on the slimmer side.

I am familiar with with fight jackets and have a non-custom Goodwear Aero A-2. So, I’m familiar with the fit of an A-2 having high armholes. I would appreciate some thoughts and experiences with the Star and Monarch with regard to color and fit.

Btw, here are some photos of my Goodwear A-2!

I went with the Monarch mainly because of the generous shoulders on that contract plus a decent pit to pit (I’ve got swimmers shoulders & a broad chest) & to get a change from my usual ‘seal’ purchases. I used the History Preservation web site where Charles kindly gives measurements

https://www.historypreservation.com/

Doesn’t the ELC Star only come in a semi-dark seal? I’d be inclined to go with the Monarch.

bn1966 said:

I went with the Monarch mainly because of the generous shoulders on that contract plus a decent pit to pit (I’ve got swimmers shoulders & a broad chest) & to get a change from my usual ‘seal’ purchases. I used the History Preservation web site where Charles kindly gives measurements

https://www.historypreservation.com/

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Thank you, and I have experienced shoulder and pit to pit issues on my Goodwear, so room in the upper body is important.

JohnnyG said:

Thank you, and I have experienced shoulder and pit to pit issues on my Goodwear, so room in the upper body is important.

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The Monarch came out best overall for a generous fit along with one of the Roughwears which would have worked too. Loving the Russet which I wouldn’t call very light, quite a deep tone.

bn1966 said:

The Monarch came out best overall for a generous fit along with one of the Roughwears which would have worked too. Loving the Russet which I wouldn’t call very light, quite a deep tone.

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I saw photos of your Monarch from a few years ago. Nice jacket! Would you have any recent photos. I am very curious to see how it is aging.

Haven’t given this one a beasting like my old ELC RW. The Monarch is wearing in nicely, will get a couple of photos this week when the lights good and post here...