Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, Military & Historical Items for Discerning Collectors
LATEST ITEMS
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RAF Type D flying helmet, first pattern (unwired) - rare variant + Type 26 microphone assembly.
RARE variant of the First Pattern Type D cotton drill summer/desert flying helmet (for aircrews stationed east of Malta, per RAF parlance). Unwired (ie. for external wiring) and a transitional model with the noise attenuating rubber surrounds mounted inside the helmet rather than externally. Fore-and-aft goggle strap tabs, leather chin strap with Bennett buckle and snaps/press studs for Types D, E, E* or G oxygen masks. Retains felt lining inside forehead and on chin flap. Lovely crisp A-crown-M property mark and stores ref. number indicating a size 3 (large). Great condition with no damage and hardly any wear. Fitted with a superb Type 26 microphone assembly (Type 25 mic. Q cord and plug). The microphone has an early or trial type of oiled cotton moisture guard I've not seen before. All in all a very rare, possibly unique, transitional or trial helmet.​
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$675 / £510 / €595
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Excellent RAF Mk IVB flying goggles.
A lovely set of RAF Mk IVB flying goggles, first introduced into service in July 1940, yet having a relatively short service life, being superseded by the Mk VII in 1942 and all but replaced by Mk VIIIs in 1943. This pair is in lovely condition. Very minor dings to the brass frames, 95% original painted finish, nice clear lenses, good ear-loops and strap. The sponge cushions are, as usual, hard and slightly misshapen, but not enough to detract. Curiously, the central nut holding the frames together has been painted white. I have seen this on numerous Mk VII goggles, but never on Mk IVs. The leather nose protector is a lovely natural, light leather. Markings n strap are barely discernible. No polarizing flip-up screen - these were not attached when issued and often available only upon request. I have never been sure of the reason for the white painted nuts, but one theory is that these were for night use - which would also explain the lack of a flip screen. Well above average condition.
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$575 / £435 / €505
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AAF / US Army Mask, Field, Chamois for cold weather use including flying duties.
Chamois face mask worn by aviators for extreme cold and high altitude, as well as other branches of the US Army. It could be worn under an oxygen mask if needed. This example still has a tag attached listing the manufacturer and a 1943 date. Very good condition with some minor storage soiling. Strap retains elasticity.
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$85 / £65 / €75
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Extremely scarce RAF brogue waders and boots for flying boat crews.
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One of the more rare and unusual items of flying/aircrew clothing. A lovely set of Air Ministry marked Brogue Waders and boots. First used in the 1920s with early flying boats, and when the RAF began competing in the Schneider Trophy races with seaplanes and the pilot had to be carried to and from his aircraft so he didn't get wet. These were issued throughout WWII to both aircrews and ground crews of Sunderlands, Catalinas and other flying boats and seaplanes. Comprises a very sturdy pair of rubberized canvas and leather boots, size 11 and well marked, with metal studs for gripping the seabed. These were worn over thigh-length waders or bib-stype overalls made of the same rubberized canvas fabric. This pair includes thigh-high waders which are also faintly marked but less discernable. One wader is missing its strap and buckle, one has a few small holes in the foot area, but the canvas remains overall supple and flexible. The set appears unissued with just storage wear and some oxidation to the metal studs in the sole. Quite a rarity and a wonderful display item for any flying boat or Schneider Trophy competition exhibit.
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$525 / £395 / €460
Rare WWII Emergency Rations tin complete with original contents (caffeine infused chocolate).
The "Emergency Rations" tin was issued in emergency kits to all branches service in combat areas as a backup to all other rations and supplies. One tin was intended to sustain one man for 24 hours. It contained a solid block of highly-caffeinated chocolate (similar to the German Scho-ka-Kola). Finding one with all original contents is rare. Still retains part of its gold finish — a special waterproofing which eventually flaked off. Lacks original seal but tin is intact and contents remain. Clear instructions on lid and product coding on bottom.
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$195 / £150 / €175