Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Handcrafted British Coats Since 1917
Established in the aftermath of World War I, our company was founded on the principles of resilience and integrity by Victoria Cross recipient Private Jack White. Since 1917, we have upheld a legacy of military precision and British craftsmanship, operating from the last remaining standalone clothing factory in Manchester, the world's first industrial city. Our garments are handcrafted using traditional techniques, combining historical inspiration with modern functionality. Every coat we produce reflects decades of accumulated expertise and a commitment to quality that has been refined across generations. Our factory, established in 1853, houses an archive of 25,000 patterns that continue to inform our designs.We maintain strict quality control by sourcing over 90% of our materials within a 20-mile radius of our Manchester facility. Our team of skilled artisans, many with decades of tenure, ensures each product meets our exacting standards. The copper detailing in our garments serves as a symbolic connection to our founder's act of bravery. We maintain transparency in our manufacturing processes, prioritizing ethical production practices. Our flagship store in Salford allows customers to experience our craftsmanship firsthand and engage directly with our heritage.
Services
Flight Jacket
Harrington Coat
Jack's Mac
Peacoat
Rider's Trench
Details
- Year established: 1917
Highlights and features
- We maintain the last remaining standalone clothing factory in Manchester's industrial heartland
- Our archive of 25,000 patterns informs contemporary designs with historical authenticity
- Over 90% of materials sourced within 20 miles of our Manchester factory
- Garments handcrafted by artisans with decades of specialized expertise
- Direct connection to military heritage through founder Private Jack White's Victoria Cross story
Services
Flight Jacket
Inspired by WWII G-1 flight jackets, our Flight Jacket combines historical authenticity with modern craftsmanship. Handcrafted from premium UK woven doeskin wool, it features reinforced elbow patches and authentic military detailing. The design balances warmth with mobility, making it suitable for both urban environments and outdoor conditions.
Harrington Coat
Our Harrington style reinterprets classic 1950s blouson designs using advanced Ventile fabric. This 100% cotton material provides wind resistance while maintaining breathability. The tailored fit and minimalist aesthetic make it adaptable to various occasions while retaining its functional heritage.
Jack's Mac
Named after our founder, this waterproof raincoat represents over a century of technical innovation. Constructed from specially treated cotton duck fabric, it combines traditional tailoring with modern weatherproofing. The single-breasted design with storm flap maintains classic styling while providing practical protection against elements.
Peacoat
Based on naval officer uniforms, our peacoat features authentic design elements including oversized buttons and a structured collar. Made from heavy-duty melton wool, it offers superior warmth while maintaining a slim silhouette through precise tailoring techniques developed over decades.
Rider's Trench
Drawing from motorcycle culture and military designs, this jacket incorporates protective features without compromising style. The asymmetric zipper and reinforced panels address functional needs while maintaining the brand's signature attention to historical detail and premium material selection.
Questions
What is the significance of the copper detailing in your garments?
The copper elements reference Private Jack White's Victoria Cross action, where he used copper wire to rescue comrades. These details serve as a permanent reminder of our founding values.
Where are your garments manufactured?
All our coats are handmade in our historic Manchester factory, established in 1853 and now the last remaining standalone clothing factory in the city.
Do you offer factory tours?
While we don't provide formal tours, our Salford store allows visitors to see the factory environment and meet the craftspeople during regular business hours.
What makes your Ventile fabric special?
Ventile is a high-density cotton weave developed by British military forces. It becomes more wind-resistant when wet, offering unique performance characteristics while maintaining natural breathability.
How should I care for my Private White V.C. garment?
We recommend professional cleaning for most items. Specific care instructions are provided with each purchase, tailored to the materials used in individual garments.
Can I visit your Manchester store?
Our flagship store in Salford is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-1pm. Appointments are recommended for personalized assistance with selections.
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Reviews (6)
Cheung Lang Hoh
Jul 20, 2021
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Showed up completely uninvited, but Rivki and Alex were nice enough to welcome me in and give me a factory tour. Ended up spending an hour nosing around different things and walked away a very happy man with a beautiful mac and a windbreaker. The factory is really something to behold - I knew there was a lot of handwork but gosh you need to see it to believe it. And everyone on the factory floors was incredibly nice and welcoming. Should absolutely be top of the to-do list for any menswear enthusiast.
Laura K. Evans
Nov 16, 2020
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Brilliant to see manufacturing in Greater Manchester, quality clothing, Made in Brtain Inspiring history and fantastic designs.
Phil Simmons
Oct 18, 2019
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Excellent garments and customer service. It's lovely to be able to visit the factory shop an try clothing that were literally made a stones throw away. The quality, fit and finish on the clothes are great. This is not fast fashion, rather classic British tailoring brought up to date by PWVC. They are investment pieces but still relatively accessible and definitely worth it considering the quality of construction.
Mick B.
Oct 07, 2018
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Lovely stuff and tremendous ethos, but had an absolute nightmare with them last year with their customer service - late delivery, sending items that had not been altered as requested, delays in replying. I would have happily bought all my gear from them, but now I won't visit again.
Lee Longbottom
Jan 29, 2018
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Visited the factory shop, great place, knowledge and enthusiasm was clearly demonstrated by the gentleman who served me, the quality of the clothing is truly excellent, very pleased with my purchase and looking forward to the next!
Aaron Lockington
Sep 10, 2017
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Shop and service was excellent, thanks to Dan Watson for making me feel at home. An espresso machine would be a nice touch.
