This original Waffen-SS RZM uniform label is an authentic woven textile manufacturer’s label produced for insertion into approved SS clothing during the Second World War. Woven in silver-grey rayon thread on a black rayon backing, the label bears the distinctive SS runes and the official Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) insignia together with the highly recognisable inscription:
€ 225
This original Waffen-SS RZM uniform label is an authentic woven textile manufacturer’s label produced for insertion into approved SS clothing during the Second World War. Woven in silver-grey rayon thread on a black rayon backing, the label bears the distinctive SS runes and the official Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) insignia together with the highly recognisable inscription:
“Vom Reichsführer-SS befohlene Ausführung”
Translated into English, this means:
“Manufactured in accordance with the regulations ordered by the Reichsführer-SS.”
This wording confirmed that the garment had been produced by a licensed manufacturer operating under the strict quality-control standards imposed by the SS Main Economic and Administrative Office (WVHA) and the Reichszeugmeisterei.
As the SS expanded during the late 1930s and throughout the Second World War, uniform production became tightly regulated. Only manufacturers holding official RZM approval were permitted to manufacture SS uniforms and insignia. Every authorised garment carried a woven approval label such as this example, ensuring conformity with official SS specifications.
These labels appeared inside a wide variety of clothing, including:
Because many uniforms were stripped of insignia after 1945 or heavily worn during service, surviving original RZM labels have become increasingly difficult to obtain as individual collectibles.
This example displays all of the characteristics expected from an original period-produced Waffen-SS label.
The label is woven rather than printed using fine silver-grey rayon thread on a black rayon foundation. Both sides retain their original woven selvage borders, while the folded ends indicate that the label was originally sewn into a garment seam.
The obverse incorporates:
The reverse retains the woven manufacturing approval codes, including the A4/22 textile classification and partial RZM registration number. Although the complete manufacturer code is obscured by folds and stitching, the visible coding remains entirely consistent with authentic wartime production.
Several construction characteristics support the originality of this Waffen-SS RZM uniform label.
Overall, the label displays the manufacturing quality expected from an original wartime SS-approved textile label.
The reverse includes the designation:
A4/22
This is an official RZM textile classification rather than a manufacturer’s number.
The A4 category was allocated to cloth uniform production, confirming that this label belonged to an approved textile garment manufactured under the SS licensing system.
The remaining registration code identifies the individual licensed manufacturer, although it cannot be fully deciphered because part of the weaving is obscured.
Original Waffen-SS RZM labels are increasingly sought after by advanced collectors because they are tangible evidence of official SS clothing manufacture. While many survive attached to uniforms, comparatively few exist as loose examples retaining clear woven detail.
Collectors often acquire these labels for:
The label remains in very good original condition.
Minor fraying around the edges, slight handling wear and natural ageing are entirely consistent with an original wartime textile label that was removed from a garment. The woven lettering remains crisp and highly legible, while both woven insignia retain excellent definition.
Explore related listings: SS Items.
