A Legacy Reimagined: The WELTMANN Munich Upcycled Swiss Military Jacket Collection

Here at The Coolector, we’re firm believers that the most compelling products are those with a rich story to tell. An item with heritage, with a past life, carries a weight and character that simply cannot be replicated. It is this philosophy that makes the latest release from German accessories brand, WELTMANN, so immediately captivating. They haven’t just created a new product; they’ve given a storied piece of Swiss history a remarkable second act with their “Upcycled Swiss Military Jacket” collection. This isn’t the jacket itself, but rather a masterful transformation of its iconic fabric into a sophisticated three-piece ensemble for the modern connoisseur.

The story begins in the Swiss Alps. From the mid-1970s to the 1990s, the Swiss army was issued its “Ordonnanz 72” uniforms, crafted from a premium Loden cloth. This remarkable textile, woven from the wool of Alpine sheep, is a marvel of natural engineering—inherently water-repellent, thermoregulating, and flame-resistant. Its subtle hue, shifting between stone grey and olive green depending on the light, gives each piece a unique character. This is the very fabric that WELTMANN has sourced, breathing new life into a material renowned for its resilience and alpine legacy.

Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail in Germany, the collection repurposes this historic Loden into a stunning set comprising a watch strap (£140), an Apple Watch Strap (£140), and a keychain (£193). WELTMANN has expertly blended the rugged, military-grade wool with premium nappa leather, creating a perfect balance of grit and grace. The watch strap, a clear standout for any horology enthusiast, features quick-release spring bars, allowing for effortless, tool-free style changes. It offers a chance to pair your favourite timepiece with a strap that carries decades of history.

The accompanying keychain is a work of art in its own right. The hardware is crafted from solid 925 sterling silver, cold-drawn for resilience and finished with a brilliant double-line diamond cut engraving that contrasts beautifully with its brushed surface. It bears the Latin inscription “HORA SIT OPTIMA VOBIS,” which translates to “May this hour be your best”—a fitting and personal talisman for any watch lover. Completing the trio is the generously sized glasses case. Measuring 17cm by 8cm, it is designed to protect everything from reading glasses to large sunglasses, all while exuding an air of discreet, understated luxury through its refined silhouette and superb leather craftsmanship.

Beyond the exceptional design, WELTMANN’s commitment to social responsibility adds another layer of appeal. The brand actively involves social organisations in its production process, such as a project in Munich where the sterling silver rings are hand-polished and attached to the keychains. As CEO Michael Holz puts it, “We are proud to give this exceptional material with its unique story a new life.” Acquiring this piece of wearable history, priced at £395 for the full set, is an investment in a story of resourcefulness, artisanal skill, and upcycling at its finest. Each set is truly unique, a tangible piece of the past, thoughtfully redesigned for the present.

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