ICE JACKET SPECIAL EDITION '988'008

 

There are rare, very rare jackets, and then there's this jacket. Why even bother writing about it in a whole article? Well, keep reading to find out...

1988/89 first ever series of thermochromic jackets, the so-called ICE JACKETS, released on the European market at prohibitive prices. Only very few examples have survived the test of time and wear, further fueling the search for them by enthusiasts.

 

 

 

Among the many variations of the first ICE JACKETS collection, this model stands out. It's made with thermochromic fabric on the front and sleeves, but for cost-effectiveness, it's made with nylon with a ripstop weave on the back. At the time, Osti obtained the exclusive right to use this thermochromic material in Europe, but the costs were far from affordable.

Credits - Original Version 1988/89

 

It was believed that the history of this garment was relegated to the past, a relic to be sought out and protected, until in the 2008/2009 season, for the opening of the Flagship store in South Korea (Seoul), the same model was re-proposed, made in new materials but scrupulously following Osti's design.

 

 

The garment, released for the first time in the Autumn Winter 88/89 collection and then re-proposed, is rich in details: double diagonal front zip, large removable pocket on the bottom of the jacket, “Radio Pocket” model pocket derived from the Royal Navy, Ripstop Nylon hood removable from the collar, double main fastening with zip and branded buttons, adjustable sleeves with Velcro, double pocket with snap button fastening on the back.

 

Before this opening, the ICE JACKET SPECIAL EDITION N° 521 model belonged exclusively to President Carlo Rivetti. To date, the copies in circulation can be counted on the fingers of one hand. Official sources are conflicting regarding the exact number released. A Chinese blog article reports that 100 copies of the model will arrive in Asia, while unofficial internal sources state only 30 copies . The debate remains open.

But let's get to the most interesting point: what value could such a piece have on the market today? It's hard to say... in 2008, the jacket was offered to the Asian public for €1,850 , and if it were to be released today, it would be at least double that. The original model from the 1988/89 season sells for around €2,500 if in excellent condition, but the reissue of this piece is steeped in mystery, so anyone who knows its value is willing to raise their bid.

Original launch advertisement