Flying Goggles | vintageflyinghelmets

US Navy Slote and Klein AN6540 summer flying helmet in unissued condition, no receivers fitted.

Unissued condition later war USN / USMC summer flight helmet made uunder contract N288s. Size Medium which equates to Large in AAF equivalent (same size as the AN-H-16 above!). Impossible to upgrade!

SOLD

Scarce Great War Royal Flying Corps cowl type flying helmet.

Now harder than ever to find, these cowl type helmets were issued to all RFC pilots and aircrews, though they are said to have been favoured by gunners who had to stand up in their turrets and were exposed to cold air - however photgraphs show they were also worn extensively by pilots of both figher (scout ) aircarft and bombers. In overall great display condition, the leather is very good, although it could probably use some dressing. The chamois lining is also good and the War Dept issue stamp can be seen, though faintly, inside. The fur area has moulted, as is common, and the skin shows some minor insect damage, but this doesn't show when displayed. The helmet retains it's earflaps and original chin strap and nuckle. The padded cylinders were clearly removed at the time (as was common practice - they were found to be useless at deflecting sound and actually caused more noise from vibrating). The keather is evenly faded around their stitch holes showing this was definitely a period modification. A very scarce helmet in good to very good condiiton.

SOLD

RARE 1942 dated Luftwaffe rubberized linen night bombing target map of Aberdeen and Peterhead, Scotland.

Small scale map measures 53 cm x 43 cm (23" x 17") printed in colour on brght yellow rubberized linen. Single-sided in outstanding condition, very clean and no folds or pin holes as are usually found. These were carried in night bombing aircraft - the yellow background and bright features showing up well under red cockpit lighting. Being waterproof they could also be used for sailing / navigation in the event of ditching or baling out at sea. Maps shows depths of North Sea off the coast of Scotland as well as major targets on the northern Scottish coast. Aberdeen was bombed very badly in April 1943 by waves of Luftwaffe bombers coming from bases in Norway. These target maps are quite rare and highly sought after accessories and make attractive displays alongside Luftwaffe flying kit.

SOLD

RAF Sherry glasses from the officers' mess.

A matching set of four sherry glasses from an RAF officer's mess, dating from c.1930 to WWII. Excellent condition with no cracks or chips and etched RAF crest. Would prefer to sell as a set, since all are matched, but if no interest will split and sell individually.

All 4: $150 / £120 / €130

Each: $45 / £35 / €40

RAF egg cup from the officers' mess.

Eggs were a very rare commodity back in WWII and reserved only for those flying on ops. (everyone else had to make do with powdered eggs). Imagine arriving back at dawn after a long night raid and being able to enjoy a soft boiled egg - it was quite a luxury. This egg cup is exquisite: bone china made by Aynsley, with a blue glaze, gold leaf trim and RAF crest lithographed in blue. No cracks, chips or damage - perfect condition.

Vintage Flying Helmets

Aviation, military and historical items for discerning collectors

Flying Goggles

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Scarce RAF Mk VI anti-glare spectacles by Polaroid.

Excellent pair of Mk VI anti-glare spectacles, still with their original cardboard box with its paper insert sheet. Issued primarily to Coastal Command pilots and crews – which included a number of fighter squadrons – the spectacles provided enhanced visibility through haze over water. This pair is in remarkable condition, with perfect frames, clean chamois at the nose, elastic that still stretches perfectly and showing only the lightest delamination around the edges of the glass lenses. Box has been written on with a name which may be period or may be later, but does not detract. A fine pair of what were never common spectacles and are becoming much harder to find these days.

$650 / £525 / €580

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AAF AN6530 Flying Goggles by Chas Fischer Spring.

First decent pair I've seen for a long time. Nice set of these iconic US goggles with clear glass lenses. Frame is in great shape with no dings or damage and only minor discolouration/surface oxidation. Nice clear maker mark on left hand side. One piece face cushion is a little dry with some very minor surface crazing (only shows when you flex it). It remains pliable and has no signs of separation (which is usually the biggest issue). Black elastic strap has no elasticity left, but no thin spots or other issues. Overall a decent and displayable pair of goggles.

$250 / £200 / €225 email to secure this item

WWII replacement lenses for the AAF B-6, B-7, AN6530 + USN Mk II and Mk IV flying goggles.

Various available. Email to ask about green, amber or clear:

USN contract American Optical lenses clear (paper wrapped, unopened):

Per pair $35 / £30 /3€30

A few loose (unwrapped) pairs and a few singles. email your needs.

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