I recently acquired a remarkably good example of this iconic model which replaced the sturdier and more aesthetically pleasing Cadet Major in 1959. I was quite surprised to see it is fitted with a synthetic ‘O ring’ breech seal rather than a leather one as the rifle seems to be all original.
Did the early Meteors have leather breech seals fitted originally and is it possible the synthetic one has been fitted subsequently? ..... approximately what year did it become customary to have synthetic ones factory fitted and what Makes and Models were produced that had this more modern feature??

Cheers, Graeme