Nowak Jacket Owners Thread

Post by **Michaelson** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 11:45 am

Raider S wrote: I was so psyched I even took photos of the box the first one arrived in.

Tony had a habit of signing the front of his FedEx boxes when he shipped them. I even cut those signatures and notes off the front of the boxes and kept them with my paperwork. I'm glad I did now.

Regards! Michaelson

binkmeisterRick · Post by **binkmeisterRick** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 11:51 am

Likewise, Michaelson! Did yours have the doodle with his signature?

Post by **Michaelson** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 11:56 am

Yep, and a smilie face.

Regard! Michaelson

Raider S · Post by **Raider S** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 12:20 pm

Too funny. I cut out and kept those things also. On one box there was his signature, the odd little happy face, then 'Only in America!' underneath. FedEx guys must have taken notice. He even drew happy faces on the backs of a few swatches.

JC1972 · Post by **JC1972** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 12:32 pm

I was going to start a "Post your Nowak Jackets photos and stories" Tribute thread since this one has a lot of posts with no photos (over 26 pages), some photos were deleted and some comparisons to other vendor's jackets. And perhaps some stories from the RIP thread combined so its all in one place. What does everyone (or especially the mods) think?

I just feel so bad about never getting to know Tony; either meeting him or talking to him on the phone. Forget that I'll never have one of his jackets (it would've been nice though unless I'm able to get one second-hand one day); here was a young generous good man cut down by disease while on vacation with his son. I was reading some of the stories last night and I had a hard time getting to sleep thereafter. I guess because I lost my Dad when he was 48, I just feel the huge loss even though I don't know him and felt something should be done to honor him. Maybe the mods already have something in the works. And just to think he was on the Indy jacket scene for just a couple years. Tony, we hardly knew ye. God Bless, YNWA

Post by **Michaelson** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 1:18 pm

Raider S wrote:Too funny. I cut out and kept those things also. On one box there was his signature, the odd little happy face, then 'Only in America!' underneath. FedEx guys must have taken notice. He even drew happy faces on the backs of a few swatches.

I remember our delivery man here at the University telling me 'Now THAT'S a shame. Someone at FedEx apparently has time to kill, as now they're doodling on the boxes before delivery!'

Regards! Michaelson

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 3:30 pm

I liked the doodle with the big ears and hair curl

Raskolnikov · Post by **Raskolnikov** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 4:58 pm

In Honour of Tony, the two beauties he made for me:

Rest In Peace, my friend.

Texan Scott · Post by **Texan Scott** » Wed Apr 14, 2010 1:58 pm

These jackets are standouts in my opinion. When I think of TN jackets, these really made an impression:

Raider S wrote:

Castor Dioscuri · Post by **Castor Dioscuri** » Thu Apr 15, 2010 1:11 am

You know, I always wondered... Did the big guy have a hand in distressing? After seeing him getting physical with a few jackets, I can almost see him taking a carpet beater and 'interrogating' each and every of our jackets.

Whatever the case was, they'll never make 'em like they used to.

Hatch · Post by **Hatch** » Thu Apr 15, 2010 10:28 am

Castor, couldn't agree more.. in addition to his Indy jackets I've got one of his 'Surogates' (pics on FJ ) and it looks like it came straight off Bruce Willis's back ........so glad I got to know him........so sad in his passing

faststreetsofhongkong · Thu Apr 15, 2010 11:08 pm

I'm going to put this here. I put in in the other thread as a thank you to Tony and got a comment (everyone has every right to comment, it is thread after all). However, and this is my choice, I will not bounce comments back and forth in a thread that is meant to honor Tony. The case was Tony's idea, he helped me to design that case, and that is all I am going to say for the moment, except that we all have lost a good friend:

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Thu Apr 15, 2010 11:14 pm

Looks like a nice case.

Just because you have it in a case doesn't mean you still can't wear it.

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 12:36 am

Well said Michael

jnicktem · Post by **jnicktem** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 12:41 am

Tundrarider wrote:to those who were totally baffled by us, yet made us unbelievable jackets

faststreetsofhongkong · Fri Apr 16, 2010 8:34 am

Tundrarider wrote:Faststreetsofhongkong,

What an awesome way to display your gear!!! $\:D/$

Humans have a funny tendency to desire others to be like them while they are constantly trying to be like others.

Though we all came here for the love of Indiana Jones, that was only the nexus for our individual “hobbies.”

From there we branch out into numerous directions, from those who collect only jackets or hats or whips to those who collect totally Screen Accurate gear and display it on a mannequin to those who gear up completely and stroll around town to those who were totally baffled by us, yet made us unbelievable jackets to those who display there awesome gear in cases to those who play the video/computer games to those who just collect the toys to those who enjoy “close enough” gear to those who have watched the movies a million times to those who distress to those who don’t to those who just like to talk about Indy to those who replicate the gear for others to those who hang around for the people!

The amazing variety of people, personalities and preferences on this forum is what makes it so wonderful!!!

Let’s allow each other to enjoy the Indy Experience however each of us chooses!!! After all, in the greater scheme of things, we’re just a bunch of nerds, “nerding out” over some guy who never even existed.

Michael

Thanks for your post, I mean it.

I also respect all kinds of collectors/people, sometimes you have to look deeper at things, perhaps something at first glance is not what you think it is. For the record, I own several of Tony's jackets, one of my KOTCS jackets I have worn pretty much everyday it is at least semi-cool outside. However, in some cases, things need to be preserved, and in matters of friendship, sometimes you just have to keep your word. I realize that this might sound confusing, but perhaps in the near future it will not. One thing to be clear is that Tony's work will live on in film history, just like Harrison's work playing the character of Indy. We all seem to be doing what we can to keep that spirit alive, some of us just do it in different ways than others. We can all agree on one thing: Tony will be apart of us, all of us. I can still hear him in my head sometimes, laughing, telling it like it is. Tony was a real character, and he is missed ...

Baldwyn · Post by **Baldwyn** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 1:51 pm

After seeing your pictures, I was imagining a different Indy IV movie, where Indy had given up adventuring for the quiet life, and his old 'going digging' clothes were put in a museum like display in his house, like yours. And then suddenly, he's pulled violently from his peaceful existence, and breaks out the gear. YEEHAW!

I also sometimes imagine a bunch of us getting patches in Tony Nowak's honour sewn onto our otherwise screen accurate jackets.

And then I can imagine that loud, boisterous laugh of his at the thought.

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 2:07 pm

Baldwyn wrote:After seeing your pictures, I was imagining a different Indy IV movie, where Indy had given up adventuring for the quiet life, and his old 'going digging' clothes were put in a museum like display in his house, like yours. And then suddenly, he's pulled violently from his peaceful existence, and breaks out the gear. YEEHAW!

I also sometimes imagine a bunch of us getting patches in Tony Nowak's honour sewn onto our otherwise screen accurate jackets.

And then I can imagine that loud, boisterous laugh of his at the thought.

So true of that last sentence Baldwyn......' ITS JUST A F----ING JACKET!!!! '

.....Well it was according to Tony anyway

KingHamlet · Post by **KingHamlet** » Tue Apr 27, 2010 12:01 pm

Has anyone heard what is happening to his factory?
I spoke with his son-in-law a few weeks ago and he told me he is taking over the factory. He invited me to come in anytime I have available, but I'm not sure if that meant the factory is going to keep going as it had.
I didn't want to ask, because the only reason I had called was to give me condolences and did not want to talk about jackets.

binkmeisterRick · Post by **binkmeisterRick** » Tue Apr 27, 2010 12:10 pm

Give it time before worrying about things. As mentioned numerous times in different threads, out of respect, we are refraining from such discussion of his business at this time. It hasn't even been a month yet since his passing.

Post by **Michaelson** » Tue Apr 27, 2010 12:13 pm

I'm sure if/when something changes, we will see an announcement at their website, so keep an eye on that location for any updates. If/when something official is posted, please let 'us' know.

Otherwise, as bink points out, though he passed a month ago, his funeral was only on the 17th of this month, so let's keep the discussion to the fine product TN produced and wait to see what happens at this site.

Regards! Michaelson

KingHamlet · Post by **KingHamlet** » Tue Apr 27, 2010 4:31 pm

I understand completely. And only brought it up becuase Mr. Barrie had told me that on the phone weeks ago. Again, I was not trying to discuss business, I was only interested in knowing if the family was going to keep it going.

Not trying to disrespect someone I considered a very dear friend. Sorry if it came across that way. I'm not in the market for a jacket, I have my very prized #313. Just hoping Tony's name is not forgotten and that his legacy lives on.

Sorry to sound disrespectful as Tony meant a lot to me as well as many others.

Post by **Michaelson** » Tue Apr 27, 2010 4:34 pm

Not at all, and it wasn't taken as such.

HIGH regards! Michaelson

DarenHenryW · Post by **DarenHenryW** » Tue May 04, 2010 7:55 pm

Here's my Raiders 747 Nowak.

I got it around early October. I will have this jacket until the day I die . . .

Thanks again, Big Tony. You were one of the sweetest and most generous men I ever knew. And your work knew no equal.

Daren Henry

scot2525 · Post by **scot2525** » Mon May 10, 2010 5:17 pm

Has anyone else, besides Han Jones, recieved a paid jacket order from Nowak Originals, since Tony's unfortunate passing?

faststreetsofhongkong · Tue May 18, 2010 4:42 pm

I didn't know if I should start a new thread or not, but has anyone previously posted hi-def images of the screen used/production jackets from KOTCS? From the different scenes I mean?

I noticed that there are many threads examining the RAIDERS screen used/production jackets (Hero, Hawaii, BW).

I realize that Tony made these all (meaning the KOTCS production jackets) in a very similar fashion, but my interest goes to specific weathering, coloring, markings, etc. scene to scene.

If I had the ability myself, I would get the stills, but I do not have Hi-Def/Blue-Ray still grabbing abilities at the moment ...

If these exist on another thread, or someone has these and can point me in the right direction, that would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

binkmeisterRick · Post by **binkmeisterRick** » Tue May 18, 2010 5:37 pm

Yes, this belongs in a different thread. Have you done a search? I'd use the search function first before starting a new thread for your topic.

singsingjohnny · Post by **singsingjohnny** » Tue May 18, 2010 7:42 pm

scot2525 wrote:Has anyone else, besides Han Jones, recieved a paid jacket order from Nowak Originals, since Tony's unfortunate passing?

I have, got my 747 Crystal Skull last Friday, I'll
post some pics later tonight...

RCSignals · Post by **RCSignals** » Tue May 18, 2010 10:37 pm

Glad to hear you have your jacket, i hope it is all you expected. a CS should be interesting in 747

singsingjohnny · Post by **singsingjohnny** » Tue May 18, 2010 10:51 pm

I couldn't be happier with the 747 in the Crystal Skull style. I originally ordered the Raiders in a 747 but changed it to a CS when Riley contacted me, in honor of Tony. I'm happy I did. It's a beautiful soft yet durable dark brown cowhide with a light undertone, perfect, IMO, for a Crystal Skull. I know the SA version is a bit lighter but seeing as how I prefer a darker look, it turned out perfect. I've read other people's comments about the 747 and how it gets better and better...it's true.

This is absolutely the best jacket I've ever owned and will always remember the man who designed it when I wear it (as I sit on the couch, typing this, watching yesterday's 24, I have it on...)

Indyzane · Post by **Indyzane** » Tue May 18, 2010 11:30 pm

I've had my two jackets since the first of the month. Per Rileys request I haven't posted them. I have a thread ready to post but he doesn't want me to do it until he tells me to. So it will be very soon and all I can say is your all in for a amazing thread.

Indyzane

Tibor · Post by **Tibor** » Tue May 18, 2010 11:39 pm

scot2525 wrote:Has anyone else, besides Han Jones, recieved a paid jacket order from Nowak Originals, since Tony's unfortunate passing?

Yes, just yesterday my Raiders in Nowak goat arrived (59/888). This is the first jacket I've had that I'm truly convinced I could wear every day and it will still outlast me. I love the dark color, the toughness of the leather, the cut... first rate quality as always. This one would stand up to being dragged under a truck ... as well as being rained on, shot at, etc. It has the toughness of G&B goat, but the aged, less "finished" look to the leather.

crismans · Post by **crismans** » Tue May 18, 2010 11:59 pm

I'm really, really glad to hear that Riley and company are matching the legacy that Tony started.

Castor Dioscuri · Post by **Castor Dioscuri** » Wed Sep 15, 2010 9:47 pm

A project that began with Tony and ended with Riley, I present the most bittersweet addition to my jacket collection- the last jacket that I would have ever turn to Tony for.

What more can I say than it is perfect in every regard? Though my previous Nowaks were absolute joys, there always was something off in the measurements, and I was the one to blame. Always fiddling with whatever measurements was gleamed from my last Nowak, if you were to look at my healthy collection of Nowaks, no two have the same measurements!

Yet it is in this last one that I know I've finally found my true grail. This is the one jacket that finally assures me that I need no other... Or at if I do, I'd simply have to ask Riley for a replica of.

Everything I had ever wanted from an Indy jacket, everything that I set out for since 2006, I have finally found in this jacket. This is due completely to both Tony's enthusiasm, and Riley's amazing insistence on the minutia. I still remember the relentless calls, in some cases several times in a day, just to get the sleeve details right!

Although this jacket had been completed for a few months, it was only recently that I had begun the pleasure of finally breaking this one in, but this will be one of my most treasured jackets next to my first jacket and my first Nowak.

As for the jacket itself? A beautifully hand distressed light "Crystal Skull" leather jacket that just like Indy and the legendary Nowak, this is a jacket that needs no other introduction.

(Oh, and here's a gratuitous shot of my idol... Trying to copy that Sideshow Indy look!

Weston · Post by **Weston** » Wed Sep 15, 2010 9:53 pm

It suits you very, very well.

Weston

Tibor · Post by **Tibor** » Wed Sep 15, 2010 10:16 pm

Castor, just perfect. Same thing happened to me. My first Nowak was a bit long and slightly too trim in the chest to capture the look. It fits great, but doesn't quite capture the vibe. The jacket I started with Tony and Riley finished is perfect. I partially have Michael (Tundrarider) to thank for getting me to think shorter for the jacket. Plus it's the right color and texture for my tastes.

The fit is spot on, Castor. Well done.

nicktheguy · Post by **nicktheguy** » Wed Sep 15, 2010 10:21 pm

lovely jacket there....it will last a lifetime!

ProfessorHenryWJonesJr · Wed Sep 15, 2010 10:22 pm

COW member "Castor Dioscuri",
BEAUTIFUL jacket, sir.

Baldwyn · Post by **Baldwyn** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 12:40 am

Agreed, that jacket is your best Indy one yet, Castor!!!!! Doesn't look like a Crystal Skull fit, it's EVEN BETTER. Well done!

Raskolnikov · Post by **Raskolnikov** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 3:17 am

That's just gourgeus

. Congratulations!

Texan Scott · Post by **Texan Scott** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 9:27 am

That really is a work of art. Beautiful leather. The pocket shape and placement is reminiscent of LC. Enjoy!

Mitch LaRue · Post by **Mitch LaRue** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 10:00 am

Yeah, I've gotta echo what the other guys here are saying, Castor...

That looks just PERFECT for/on you!

Sincere Congratulations to finally feeling a real sense of completion on your Quest.
That jacket is a work of Art!

djd · Post by **djd** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 10:25 am

Looks really nice! Lucky man

tomek9210 · Post by **tomek9210** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 1:13 pm

If I had million dollars

So that's definitely what that song's about

It fits you perfectly. That's it. The grail...

CM · Post by CM » Thu Sep 16, 2010 8:14 pm

So is that your own pattern? It's clearly not a Raiders or CS to look at (unless my eyesight is failing) so what are the specs?

Noah · Post by **Noah** » Thu Sep 16, 2010 9:26 pm

That jacket looks awesome!!

Great fit on you!

Forrest For the Trees · Thu Sep 16, 2010 11:46 pm

Great fit on that jacket. Those do look like custom specs on the pockets. You nailed the sleeve length. The sleeves look long in just the right way, if that makes any sense.

Castor Dioscuri · Post by **Castor Dioscuri** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 2:28 am

Weston: Thanks Weston! It's not half as good looking as that USW Raiders looks on you, but it'll have to do

Tibor: Tundraraider was absolutely brilliant in getting a shorter jacket! It really perfects that look for some of us! And I really can't wait to see what your jacket looks like ON you, Tibor, although I must say that from those pics of #59 alone, my shrunken lambs are already running in terror!

nicktheguy: Thank you Nick, I certainly hope it will!

ProfessorHenryWJonesJr: Fellow COW member "ProfessorHenryWJonesJr", thank you sir, I really appreciate it!

Baldwyn: Thank you old friend, I've indeed given up on trying to capture that elusive 'Ford' fit, and instead have settled on trying to find something that looks better on me instead!

Not too hard after you stop trying to emulate the fit of a 60 year old... Not that that's old or anything...

Tundraraider: Thank you Michael, and I want your beautiful jacket!

Your thanks really means alot, especially since alot of the details for this jacket were inspired by your perfect Nowak!

Raskolnikov: It is! Thank you!

Texan Scott: The leather never has let me down, nor have the artists at 114 Standard St! Thank you, and you've just made my day! I'm glad to hear it is remniscent of LC, since that was what I was going for!

Mitch LaRue: Hearing approval from you is the next best thing to getting approval from Harrison Ford, since you are this board's Ford doppelganger!

Thank you Mitch!

djd: Luckier still to be a member on CoW!

tomek9210: I think my jacket wrote that song... Thank you, and I completely agree! Now I'll just have to lay off those porterhouses to keep it that way!

CM: To be completely honest, I'm not completely sure. Although, like Texan Scott pointed out, it is indeed at the very least based on the LC jacket. And I can't presume to take any credit for the pattern, since I simply asked Tony/Riley to make as close a copy to the LC as possible while keeping the details in proportion to my own dimensions, so I guess you could say the jacket simply is Indy in spirit? LC inspiration, with CS leather, for a slim ToD fit, in a Raiders length?

Noah: Thank you Noah! I really hope though that I can fit the awesomness of the jacket though!

Forrest For the Trees: Really, thank you for being the first to notice the sleeves! That's one of my favorite parts of this jacket, and gives me one less thing to worry about insofar as shrinking/wrinkling is concerned! I must admit I requested it at first to give me some room if the jacket were to ride up, but Riley and co just did such a great job that the jacket refuses to even ride up at all! But now, it's settled in such a perfect spot, that I wouldn't have it any other way!

SpeedRcrX · Post by **SpeedRcrX** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 4:30 am

This is a nice one Castor and the fit is great!

Enjoy it !!

Castor Dioscuri · Post by **Castor Dioscuri** » Fri Sep 17, 2010 8:57 pm

Thank you _ and SpeedRcrX! I really do appreciate the kind sentiments, although now I am debating hanging up this jacket after the latest developments. Say _, is there room in here for another X-0?