Schott NYC, originally Schott Bros, has etched its name into the annals of American fashion history since its inception in 1913. Founded by brothers Irving and Jack Schott, this family-owned business started humbly on the Lower East Side of New York City. The Schott brothers’ pioneering spirit led to the creation of the iconic Perfecto motorcycle jacket, the first of its kind to feature a zipper, a revolution in outerwear that would shape the future of the brand. Over the years, Schott has not only become synonymous with classic American style but also with quality and durability, earning a place in the wardrobes of everyone from military personnel to rebellious rock stars.

The Perfecto jacket, named after Irving Schott’s favorite cigar, made its debut in 1928 and quickly became a symbol of rugged American individualism. This jacket wasn’t just clothing; it was a statement piece embraced by motorcyclists for its robust design and functional features. The Perfecto’s journey from a Harley-Davidson distributor to the silver screen in movies like “The Wild One,” worn by Marlon Brando, cemented its status as a cultural icon. This black leather jacket, with its distinct D-pocket, belted front, and zippered cuffs, evolved into a must-have for anyone looking to capture the spirit of adventure and rebellion.

Schott’s legacy extends beyond its signature motorcycle jacket. During World War II, the company contributed to the war effort by producing bomber jackets for the US Air Force and naval pea coats for sailors. These garments not only served a functional purpose but also became timeless pieces that remain in production today. The post-war era saw the Perfecto jacket gain notoriety as a symbol of teenage defiance, with icons like James Dean and the Ramones donning the jacket and solidifying its place in popular culture.

As Schott NYC celebrates over a century in business, it remains a testament to American craftsmanship and innovation. The company’s commitment to manufacturing in the United States and maintaining high standards of quality has ensured that each piece, whether it’s a leather jacket or a wool pea coat, carries a legacy of durability and style. For vintage clothing enthusiasts, understanding the nuances of Schott’s logos and tags through the decades provides a fascinating glimpse into the brand’s rich history and helps in identifying authentic vintage pieces. Whether you’re drawn to the rebellious spirit of the Perfecto or the classic appeal of a naval coat, Schott NYC continues to represent the enduring allure of American fashion.

How to tell if Schott is vintage from the logo

Schott is renowned for its iconic outerwear, especially the classic leather jackets that have become synonymous with American fashion. Understanding the evolution of Schott’s logo can provide valuable insight into dating their vintage pieces. Here’s a guide to identifying Schott’s vintage logos over the years.

1960s to now Schott logo

• The current Schott logo has been in use since the 1960s.
• The logo features the text “Schott” in a bold, blocky font.
• The letters are slightly curved, giving the logo a distinctive and modern look.
• Below the main text, “N.Y.C.” is written in red, capital letters, adding a touch of color and emphasizing the brand’s New York roots.
• The “®” symbol is present, indicating the registered trademark status of the logo.

1960s to now Schott logo

How to tell if Schott is vintage from the tags

The evolution of Schott tags reflects the brand’s rich history and development over the decades. From the early use of simple and utilitarian designs to more modern and elaborate styles, Schott tags provide significant clues about the era of the garment. Here’s a breakdown of the tags from different decades to help identify vintage Schott items.

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1960s vintage Schott tags

• Simple, utilitarian designs.
• Often includes the brand name “Schott” and location “N.Y.C.”
• Tags may appear worn and aged due to the materials used.

1960s Schott tags

1970s vintage Schott tags

• Reflects a mix of bold and simple designs.
• Often includes the Schott logo with “N.Y.C.”
• Tags frequently indicate “Made in USA” and feature size indicators.
• Some tags have specific product names like “Perfecto” or “Western” in stylized fonts.

1970s Schott tags

1980s vintage Schott tags

• Rebranded to “Schott N.Y.C.” with a more standardized logo.
• Square or rectangular tags with bold lettering.
• Commonly includes “Made in USA” and the American flag.
• Some tags have product-specific designs, such as “Rancher” with western themes.

1980s Schott tags

1990s vintage Schott tags

• Rectangular tags featuring the Schott logo and “N.Y.C.”
• Often paired with the American flag and size information.
• More modern look with dark colors and clear, bold fonts.

1990s Schott tags

2000s vintage Schott tags

• Modernized designs with darker colors and varied layouts.
• Includes the Schott logo with “N.Y.C.” prominently displayed.
• Some tags are looped for the first time, indicating size and care instructions separately.

2000s Schott tags

2010s vintage Schott tags

• Further modernized layouts while retaining the classic Schott logo.
• Use of a variety of colors and materials for tags.
• Additional styles and layouts introduced, including more elaborate graphics.

2010s Schott tags