The term ‘classic’ is bandied around like a fashionable hot potato when it comes to describing most pieces inside men’s wardrobes. But few were so perfect the first time around that they haven’t been refined over time. Men’s peacoats, however, are a piece to which such words can truly be applied. From deck to dock, this compact casual winter coat has seen it all.

First worn by sailors during the 1800s, the cropped, double-breasted style, also known as a ‘reefer jacket’ or ‘officer’s coat’, is anchored in naval heritage, but came ashore in the decades that followed and stayed here. Worn by everyone from James Dean to Robert Redford to Daniel Craig’s Bond, the men’s peacoat has firmly shaken off the salty sea-dog vibes and is an ideal choice for winter walks or post-work pints.

Traditionally rendered in navy-colored Melton wool, it’s warm, easy to style and endlessly versatile thanks to its neat, tapered silhouette that leaves just enough room for a solid piece of knitwear to slot underneath.

If you want to survive the colder months in style, finding your perfect men’s peacoat is, um, quay.

Men’s Peacoats: A Brief History

Like so much of the best outerwear for men, the men’s peacoat is a decorated military veteran. “It was invented by the Camplin family to supply the British Royal Navy,” says designer Julian Fuller, former head of menswear design at Debenhams. “It was originally the uniform of the petty officer, but following World War II, surplus jackets found their way into the average man’s wardrobe. The style was embraced thanks to its timeless styling and practicality.”

There is an ongoing debate among menswear buffs about the exact origins of the name. While some say it’s an abbreviation of ‘petty officers coat’, others believe it derives from the Dutch word ‘pijjekker‘, which describes a naval jacket that dates back to the 16th century.