Time Capsule Find: House of Hardy Inflatable Fly Fishing Vest / PFD Condition: New Without Tags (NWOT) | Pristine & Unused
Up for auction/sale is an absolute rarity for the traditional fly angler and collector: a genuine House of Hardy Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Fly Fishing Vest, manufactured in April 2002 at the legendary Alnwick, Northumberland facility in England. This is a true "time capsule" item. It has spent its entire life safely stored, meaning it remains in crisp, unblemished, near-factory condition with absolutely zero sun fade, fabric wear, or fraying. The rich deep green fabric is stiff and structurally perfect.
Key Features & Details:
Premium Build: Heavy-duty, high-grade 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton blend canvas construction, typical of the legendary House of Hardy quality.
Dual-Function Design: Combines a classic multi-pocket wading/fishing vest with an integrated shell designed to house a 150N automatic/manual inflatable life jacket (CE Approved to EN396).
Storage Galore: Features multiple utility pockets, zippered compartments, Velcro fly patches, heavy-duty YKK zippers, and specialized D-rings for landing nets or gear attachment.
Safety & Specs:
Part No: 90801HA
Size: Adult Large (L) – Designed to fit an adult chest range of 90cm to 135cm.
Weight Capacity: 60kg and over.
Inflation Mechanism: Designed for an automatic water-immersion mechanism with a manual toggle backup (uses a standard 34g CO2 cylinder).
Condition Notes for the Discerning Buyer: This vest outer has never been worn on the water. All stitching, labels, zippers, and safety printings are immaculate and perfectly legible. The iconic House of Hardy castle embroidery on the front pocket and the interior woven neck label are flawless.
Please Note: This listing is for the vest outer jacket only. It does NOT come with the CO2 gas canister or the internal inflatable bladder. Both the bladder unit and standard 34g CO2 re-arming kits/canisters are universal, standard size, and easily sourced online or from marine/tackleshops should you wish to fit one for active lifejacket functionality. Whether you are looking to complete a high-end vintage Hardy setup, wear it as a top-tier standalone wading vest, or add a classic piece of British angling history to your collection that looks like it just walked off the showroom floor, this is an irreplaceable find.