Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, Military & Historical Items for Discerning Collectors
RECENT SALES
(click on pictures to enlarge)
RARE Classified (Restricted) official US War Dept and Navy Dept Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943.
​
Large format, hard cover manual, 10.5" x 6" and over half-an-inch thick with aircraft types from the US (Army and Navy), UK, Germany, Japan and Italy (tabs for USSR and Misc. have no aircraft). If you're going to have one Aircraft Recognition manual – this would be the one to have! Includes stern warning at the beginning of the sensitive nature of the information contained inside. Very good condition with a few nicks at the edge.
​​
SOLD
 RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |  RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |
|---|---|
 RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |  RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |
 RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |  RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |
 RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |  RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |
 RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |  RARE Classified US War Dept and Navy Dept official Aircraft Recognition Manual dated June 1943 |
US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton.
​
Bright green cotton helmet, with a long buckled chin strap, as worn by US Navy aircraft carrier deck crews. These were produced in different bright colours, with each colour denoting crew duty (engineer, armourer, airframe tech, fire/rescue etc). They were alos worn by pilots, especially carrier born fighter pilots, who had them modified by adding earcups and receivers. Snaps fitted to rear, probably for attaching a wiring loom/headset. Nice USN ink stamp on chin strap, excellent condition.
SOLD
 US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton |  US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton |
|---|---|
 US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton |  US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton |
 US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton |  US Navy carrier flight deck crew helmet in bright green cotton |
RAF issue A-13A oxygen mask
​
Scarce pressure demand oxygen mask of US design and origin, first used by USAAF pilots in WWII. This is a 1950s US made example by MSA with Sierra Engineering hardware. Later RAF issue masks were made under license in the UK. They were used by RAF jet pilots for a short time in the 1950s while the Air Ministry worked on developing a suitable pressure breathing mask of the their own. The RAF version had a Type 57 microphone installed with the external switch. Mask is in great condition, the rubber excellent with no stiff or sticky spots, fabric tape with a name and details written on, good hose/tube with connector and chain, and dated 54/55/56.
​
SOLD
 RAF issue A-13A oxygen mask |  DSCN9352 |
|---|---|
 DSCN9350 |  DSCN9354 |
 DSCN9353 |  DSCN9351 |
 DSCN9355 |
RAF Type G flying helmet wired. Cold War era circa 1965.
Successor to the C, D and E helmets of WWII, the Type G followed the Type F into service in the mid-1950s. Blue Aertex cotton with large oval leather padded earcups to keep out noise, the G helmet could be worn alone or with a Mk I bone-dome/crash helmet over it. This helmet is in very good, used condition and complete except for the internal telephone recievers (all wiring is present and correct). Helmet is dated 1965 making it suitbable for the V-bombers or Shackleton, but also worn (with the bone-dome) in Hunters, Jet Provosts, Lightnings, etc.
​
SOLD
​
 RAF Type G flying helmet wired and with Type Q oxygen mask. Cold War era circa 1965 |  RAF Type G flying helmet wired and with Type Q oxygen mask. Cold War era circa 1965 |
|---|---|
 RAF Type G flying helmet wired and with Type Q oxygen mask. Cold War era circa 1965 |  RAF Type G flying helmet wired and with Type Q oxygen mask. Cold War era circa 1965 |
Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics.
Lovely example of an early production LKpN101 mesh summer flying helmet. Studs for 2-point oxygen mask attachment only (Model 10-69 or 10-6701) with no provision for a 3-point mask. The helmet has a long cord and plug, is fitted with Mi4c carbon throat microphones and has the desirable light brown leather coverings over the telephone receivers. The are no holes in the mesh, nor any other damage to the helmet. Receivers are installed with the correct acetate sound attenuators. It has a great woven label indicating manufacture by bxo (Deutsche Telephonwerke und Kabelindustrie) and size 56 which comfortably fits a display head. The cord is flexible with no cracks or damage, just a little minor stiffening at the junction with the helmet. As good an example as you will find of this iconic fighter pilot helmet which first saw action during the Battle of Britain.
​​​
SOLD
​
 Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |  Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |
|---|---|
 Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |  Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |
 Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |  Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |
 Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |  Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |
 Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |  Early wartime Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube (mesh flying helmet) complete with all electronics. |
Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941.
A set of Luftwaffe model 295 flying goggles that would be very difficult to improve upon. The condition is just excellent, and these were clearly never worn. Frames retain all original paint and maker's stamp O.W. The one-piece cushion is as springy and soft as the day it was made, still with traces of French chalk to protect the rubber, and the strap still has full elasticity. 3 pairs of extra lenses are still stored in their cotton/felt pouches in the inner box and a silk cleaning cloth is included. Box is labeled and dated January 1941 but also named to the RCAF pilot who evidently captured these as a prize – which opens the door for research.
​
SOLD
​
 Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |  Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |
|---|---|
 Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |  Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |
 Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |  Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |
 Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |  Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |
 Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |  Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |
 Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |  Superb pair of Luftwaffe model 295 goggles, in box with accessories, dated 1941 |
Breathing tube (hose) for a Type H oxygen mask, early 1950s.
Excellent condition hose for an early post-war Type H oxygen mask, though it will also fit a Type G mask. Both ends bound with linen twine, the mask end having the typical plastic screw-in connector, while the "business end" has a friction connector and a bale-out nozzle. A thin rubber tube runs inside the hose for the emergency supply. Tube is a Mk IV and is dated 3-52. Identical to WWII except for the connector.
​
SOLD
​
 Breathing tube (hose) for a Type H oxygen mask, early 1950s. |  Breathing tube (hose) for a Type H oxygen mask, early 1950s. |
|---|---|
 Breathing tube (hose) for a Type H oxygen mask, early 1950s. |  Breathing tube (hose) for a Type H oxygen mask, early 1950s. |
EXTREMELY RARE 3-section kapok pads for the 1932 Pattern green life saving waistcoat / Mae West.
One of those rare items that almost never shows up on the loose, but if you have a green 1932 pattern "Mae West" and it's missing its kapok flotation cushions, this is your chance! The set comprises two rectangular pads and one half moon shaped neck pad, joined together by linen tapes. Pads are made from oiled cotton and stuffed with teased kapok which provided buoyancy in addition to the inflatable stole. One end of one pad has a small a hole, but this has not affected the pad and the kapok is all present. I am sure it could easily be repaired if desired. These pads were exclusively for the 1932 pattern vest and their rarity cannot be overstated. There is a very faint partial oval ink stamp, and there is some water staining /age/storage marks. Overall very good condition.
​
SOLD
​
 RARE 3-section kapok pads for the 1932 Pattern green life saving waistcoat / Mae West |
|---|
 RARE 3-section kapok pads for the 1932 Pattern green life saving waistcoat / Mae West |
 RARE 3-section kapok pads for the 1932 Pattern green life saving waistcoat / Mae West |
 RARE 3-section kapok pads for the 1932 Pattern green life saving waistcoat / Mae West |
 RARE 3-section kapok pads for the 1932 Pattern green life saving waistcoat / Mae West |
WWI era British Union "Jack" flag / bunting.
In excellent condition, this small cotton Union "Jack" Flag is printed on two sides and neatly hemmed with leather corner reinforcements and silk "shoelace" tapes for hanging. It measures 16" x 13.5" (40cm x 35cm) and retains its bright, vibrant colours. Perfect accessory for any patriotic British WWI display.
​
SOLD
 WWI era British Union "Jack" flag / bunting |  WWI era British Union "Jack" flag / bunting |
|---|---|
 WWI era British Union "Jack" flag / bunting |
Wartime RAF / RCAF issue neck tie.
Excellent, WWI era black wool uniform tie, marked with the Canadian broad arrow inside a "C". Wartime uniform ties are extremely difficult to source and to find one with such a crisp clear property mark is a rarity.​
​
SOLD
​
 Wartime RAF / RCAF issue neck tie |  Wartime RAF / RCAF issue neck tie |
|---|
Lovely silk "Victory" handkerchief, depicting the flags of all the Allied nations that fought together and won WW2.
​
Unused, in beautiful, pristine condition, this small (12" square) keepsake of WW2 is significant in that it recognizes all of the Allied nations - not just the "main contenders." Printed in bright, rich colours flags of every country are shown from Australia, and India, China, canada, USSR, Czechoslovakia, Poland, New Zealan, Free France, South Africa, Greece, Holland, Great Britain and USA, plus shields with flags of Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Norway, Belgium etc. Around the edge, a border shows symbols of the countries intertwined through the word "Victory." An unusual souvenir in lovely condition.
​
SOLD
 WWII Victory Scarf / Hankie |  WWII Victory Scarf / Hankie |
|---|---|
 WWII Victory Scarf / Hankie |  WWII Victory Scarf / Hankie |
Hand-carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917.
​
Lovely hand-crafted souvenir item. Beautifully carved, large oak trinket or storage box, 9" x 4" x 2" with a hinged lid. Lid is superbly carved with RFC pilot wings over a scroll with the legend "Per Ardua ad Astra". Four sides have leaves and scrolls with 1917 carved into a shield on the front. The base is covered with green baize. Excellent condition.
​
SOLD
 Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |  Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |
|---|---|
 Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |  Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |
 Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |  Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |
 Hand carved oak Royal Flying Corps trinket box dated 1917 |
American Optical "Skyway" goggles, modified to look like Japanese goggles (possibly a movie prop?)
American Optical "Skyway" type goggles with the rubber pads removed and replaced with a reddish-brown velvet cushion to look like Japanese flying goggles. Most likely done for an older film production. Actually very well done and in excellent condition, complete with amber tinted acetate lenses. Show very little use or wear and the elastic stretches perfectly. Chas Fischer Spring engraved details are still visible on the lower edge of the frame. ​
​
SOLD
​
 American Optical "Skyway" goggles, modified to look like Japanese goggles (possibly a movie prop?) |  American Optical "Skyway" goggles, modified to look like Japanese goggles (possibly a movie prop?) |
|---|---|
 American Optical "Skyway" goggles, modified to look like Japanese goggles (possibly a movie prop?) |  American Optical "Skyway" goggles, modified to look like Japanese goggles (possibly a movie prop?) |
AAF HS-18 headset for early wartime flying helmets.
Quite hard to source these days. Early Army Air Corps HS-18 headset for the pre-war/early wartime flying helmets, including the A-8, A-9, B-5 and B-6. All communications were the jurisdiction of the US Army Signal Corps so these are marked as such. Comprises a matching pair of R-14 receivers with the short wiring cord and PL-54 black plug All in excellent condition, ready to pop into a helmet.​
​
SOLD
 AAF HS-18 headset for early wartime flying helmets |  AAF HS-18 headset for early wartime flying helmets |
|---|---|
 AAF HS-18 headset for early wartime flying helmets |
USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor.
Great find for the USN fighter pilot display! The standard ANB-MC-1 microphone which fits into the A-8, A-9, A-10 and A-14 masks, but included is a rare adaptor to enable the microphone to be installed in the US Navy issue MSA oxygen masks as well. Still wrapped in tissue and in its original packaging, marked with USN nomenclature and acceptance stamp.
​
SOLD
 USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |  USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |
|---|---|
 USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |  USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |
 USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |  USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |
 USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |  USN boxed oxygen mask mounted microphone ANB-MC-1 with adaptor. |
RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask.
Extremely rare find! While it is not unusual to find RAF Type C and D helmets modified for wear by AAF pilots and aircrews, it is extremely rare to find an early Type B reconfigured. This early 1938 dated Type B helmet, by Bednalls, has had snaps/ press studs mounted on leather and sewn to the back of the helmet to accept a Type A-8B oxygen mask. It has been further modified by adding goggle strap retaining tabs to the rear of the helmet. The A-8B mask, with its correct attachment tabs mounted with corresponding male snaps, is included with the helmet, just as it arrived. The mounting kits for the A-8B are extremely rare on their own, but this is the only example of a Type B – or any other RAF helmet – I have come across modified in this way. The helmet is in overall good condition showing some wear and use. It has a name and serial number inked inside which offers the possibility of some research. The leather is a little dry and it would definitely benefit from some dressing. There are no receivers fitted, but a set of HS-18 or HS-38 headset would be simple to install. The zipped ear compartments are padded with paper to hold their shape. The mask is in fair to good condition, well marked with a 42 date coded drawing no. and appears to be dated 49-2 (It is definitely a wartime/1940s period mask, not one of the later Medivac types). The area around the nose is dry with some cracks and splits at the edge, though the main body is still perfectly flexible. Perhaps most surprising is that the original rebreather bag/bladder is still pliable and in excellent condition. Overall the rarity of this set cannot be overstated. To protect the display, it will be shipped, as I received it, mounted on a painted styrofoam head.​
​
SOLD
​
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
|---|
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 DSCN2931 |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen maskv |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 DSCN2926 |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen maskIMG_1649 |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen maskIMG_1647 |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen maskIMG_1648 |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
 RAF Type B helmet modidfed to wear with AAF A-8B oxygen mask |
First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet.
Another rarity! The first pattern, unwired (for external wiring loom) Type E flying helmet was introduced in 1942 for issue in tropical regions. Made from lightweight, unlined Airtex cotton, its design mirrored the early Type C, with fore-and-aft goggle strap tabs and a leather chin strap with Bennett's buckle. Snaps are fitted for attaching either a Type D, E, E* or G oxygen mask. This helmet is in very good condition, slightly grubby but no damage or excessive wear (except that the felt lining of the chin flap is absent, which is common). Nice clear A-crown-M stamp on the chin flap. Size 2 (medium) and fits a display head perfectly. These do not surface very often!​
​
SOLD
​
 First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |  First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |
|---|---|
 First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |  First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |
 First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |  First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |
 First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |  First pattern (unwired) RAF Type E flying helmet |
Luftwaffe officer's uniform dress boots.
Great looking pair of German officer's top boots — from the outside. This style was highly favoured by Luftwaffe fighter pilots early in the war. These are frequently seen in photos from the Battle of France and battle of Britain, but were seriously frowned upon by the authorities — with good reason — they were impossible to remove in case of an emergency or injury, having to be cut off, almost always causing more pain and more serious injury. Their use was eventually forbidden in combat flight, although many top aces ignored the directive and wore them anyway. Nonetheless they look great with the breeches and leather jacket for an early war fighter pilot display. Leather outer is in very good shape and soles have very little wear, but the inside leather has dried out and unfortunately the pullers have pulled out, tearing some of the leather lining. Lovely display and very high quality.​
​
SOLD
 Luftwaffe officer's uniform dress boots |  DSCN7250 |
|---|---|
 Luftwaffe officer's uniform dress boots |  DSCN7245 |
 DSCN7247 |  DSCN7249 |
 DSCN7251 |  Luftwaffe officer's uniform dress boots |
 DSCN7252 |
RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube.
​
Hard-to-find accessory that completes the Type D oxygen mask. Mk IIIB bayonet connector (stores ref. 6D/101) in brass with the protective hood plated in nickel or chrome (generally thought of as being early production). Very good, used condition.
​
SOLD
 RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |  RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |
|---|---|
 RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |  RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |
 RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |  RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |
 RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |  RAF Mk IIIB* bayonet connector for the Type D mask oxygen tube |
RAF microphone Type 57 (MC-253) for the Type H oxygen mask.
Excellent example of the later WWII oxygen mask microphone Type 57 mask microphone (MC-253) as fitted to the Type H oxygen mask, as well as the later types J, M, P, Q and A-13A. Black plastic housing with small microphone fitted with short cord and plug for the Types C, D and E flying helmet. Switch operates smoothly and all parts are in good, clean condition.​
​
SOLD
 RAF oxygen mask microphone Type MC-253 for H, J, M, P, Q and A-13A mask |  RAF oxygen mask microphone Type MC-253 for H, J, M, P, Q and A-13A mask |
|---|---|
 RAF oxygen mask microphone Type MC-253 for H, J, M, P, Q and A-13A mask |  RAF oxygen mask microphone Type MC-253 for H, J, M, P, Q and A-13A mask |
 RAF oxygen mask microphone Type MC-253 for H, J, M, P, Q and A-13A mask |
WWII US Navy headset for NAF 1092, M-450 and AN6540 series flying helmets (HS-38 equivalent).
Excellent complete headset for a US Navy / Marine Corps flying helmet, from mid-1943. Set comprises a pair of ANB-H-1 receivers maker marked CDC (USN contractor) with a braided Y-cord having plastic/hard rubber sealed terminal connectors and a NAF 215285-2 aircarft radio plug. Much more scarce than the AAF version, this will fit the NAF1092 and M-450 as well as the AN6540 series helmets.
​
SOLD
 WWII US Navy headset for flying helmet |  WWII US Navy headset for flying helmet |
|---|---|
 WWII US Navy headset for flying helmet |  WWII US Navy headset for flying helmet |
RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles.
​
A very good set of RAF Battle of France / Battle of Britain period Mk III flying goggles. British made and A-crown-M marked rather than the more commonly found Canadian / RCAF issue. Acetate lenses have yellowed slightly and have a few scratches, but no shrinkage or warping. Good frames with very good leather pads (cushions slightly hardened in a couple of places, but no distortion). Excellent strap with fabric covered springs in great shape and nice clear markings. These are quite difficult to source these days! ​
​
SOLD​​
 RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles |  RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles |
|---|---|
 RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles |  RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles |
 RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles |  RAF Air Ministry marked 1936 dated Mk III flying goggles |
RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarizng sun screen.
Excellent pair of Mk VII flying goggles, showing light use, complete with the ultra rare flip-up/down polarizing sun screen for helping to spot the "hun-in-the-sun." Goggles are in overall very good condition, retaining their original shape and 90+% original ultramarine blue painted finish. Frames are straight, more-or-less free of dings and dents. Leather is good, chamois pads are slightly grubby and padding has hardened a little, but they display very well. Original strap has lost much of its elasticity. Screen is in good condition, straight with very slight surface warping. Mk VII goggles were mostly issued without the screens and are very rare to find with the screen in place!​
​
SOLD
 RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarisng sun screen |  RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarisng sun screen |
|---|---|
 RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarisng sun screen |  RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarisng sun screen |
 RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarisng sun screen |  RAF Mk VII goggles with extremely rare flip-up polarisng sun screen |
RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items.
Introduced late in 1944 for issue to RAF pilots and aircrews flying over hostile jungle terrain in the far east, the "Suit, Flying, Lightweight" (or Beadon Suit, as it is more popularly known) featured multiple pockets, each designed to hold a specific survival item. Cleverly, it also incorporated a back pack, folded up in one of the pockets, into which all of the survival items could be transferred, for ease of transportation, once on the ground. The pack featured shoulder straps that would attach to the waistbelt of the flying suit. RAF survival items are scarce and the back pack is one of the more difficult to find. This example is in excellent condition, with the broad arrow marked zip and all snaps/press studs in good working order. Some minor external storage marks but no wear or fading.​
​
SOLD
 RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |  RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |
|---|---|
 RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |  RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |
 RARE Beadon Suit carry-all / back pack for survival items. |
Royal Flying Corps pilots stem-winding 30-hour non-luminous Mk V
stopwatch/chronometer.
​
A good Mk V non-luminous pilot's stopwatch, marked B.E. 7135. One of very few I have seen that actually works! I have not wound it to its extreme, but after a few turns of the stem, it runs smoothly and appears to keep good time. Evidently it has been overhauled at some time, because it has a replacement glass crystal that is flat, with a bevelled edge, rather than domed as the original would have been. It has been opened as can be seen from the marks at the edge of the case. Nice clear
A-over-broad arrow on back of case indicating property of the Air Board (forerunner of the Air Ministry). A lovely watch which might be improved by a more authentic replacement crystal but seems to run well.
​
SOLD
 Royal Flying Corps pilots stem-winding stopwatch/chronometer |  Royal Flying Corps pilots stem-winding stopwatch/chronometer |
|---|---|
 Royal Flying Corps pilots stem-winding stopwatch/chronometer |
AAF opthalmic sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased.
Very nice set of 1940s style "aviator" type sunglasses, with green glass lenses, gold metal frames with brow bar and spring cable side arms. No signs of wear or damage, and come with their original fitted black leather case, with wood bock to hold them in place. Case is embossed in gold with "Flight Opthalmic Sunglasses by Casecraft, Newark, New Jersey. Just as nice as Raybans and probably very expensive in their day.​
​
SOLD
 AAF sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased. |  AAF sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased. |
|---|---|
 AAF sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased. |  AAF sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased. |
 AAF sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased. |  AAF sunglasses, with leather case, privately purchased. |
Extremely rare RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents.
One of many variants of the Personal Aids Kit (which was a constant work-in-progress), this version is less frequently seen. The celluloid box is contoured to fit in the front pocket of the aircrew uniform trousers. Most are so badly warped, misshapen or cracked that they have not survived. This example, though slightly deformed, actually closes and displays well. Has all its original contents but no food items. Contains some of the rarest survival aids: Compass, fishing kit with instructions, burning glass (slight chips), whetstone, razor blades (2 types), rabbit snare, tablets, firestarter kit, and water bottle. All items in very good condition. Fantstically rare!
​
SOLD
 RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |  RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |
|---|---|
 RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |  RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |
 RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |  RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |
 RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |  RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |
 RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |  RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |
 RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |  RAF escape box "Personal Aid Kit" with contents |
RAF 1937 pattern webbing belt in excellent condition.
​
Very nice RAF 1937 pattern webbing belt with all brass fittings, retaining much of its original blue grey blancoed finish. Large "N" to centre and maker markings visible but difficult to determine. Excellent example.
​
SOLD
 RAF 1937 pattern webbing belt |  RAF 1937 pattern webbing belt |
|---|---|
 RAF 1937 pattern webbing belt |
RAF 1937 Pattern Frock Khaki Drill, Airmen, 1937 Pattern dated 1942.
​
Very good example of this often overlooked uniform item for other ranks. The 1937 Pattern khaki drill jacket (still using the parlance of "frock" on its label) is in great condition, with all original buttons. Has no insignia, including the tropical shoulder eagles which appear to have been removed a long time ago. 1942 dated label.
A good clean jacket.
​
SOLD
 RAF KD service dress jacket, 1937 pattern dated 1942 |  RAF KD service dress jacket, 1937 pattern dated 1942 |
|---|---|
 DSCN9789 |  DSCN9790 |
RAF Other Ranks service dress jacket dated 1945, with printed Canada shoulder titles.
Blue serge wool SD uniform "Jacket, OA") in excellent condition, showing almost no wear and no damage, with printed Canada shoulder titles. Includes matching belt (often missing) and RAF (not RCAF) buttons. Size 8 (5'7" - 5'8" height, 37" - 38" chest; 34" waist). Label dated 1945.​
​
SOLD
​
 RAF Other Ranks service dress jacket dated 1945, with printed Canada shoulder titles |  RAF Other Ranks service dress jacket dated 1945, with printed Canada shoulder titles |
|---|---|
 RAF Other Ranks service dress jacket dated 1945, with printed Canada shoulder titles |  RAF Other Ranks service dress jacket dated 1945, with printed Canada shoulder titles |
 RAF Other Ranks service dress jacket dated 1945, with printed Canada shoulder titles |
RAF / WAAF officer's service dress shirt (post war).
Privately tailored blue uniform shirt of the correct blue/white cross weave and colour worn by RAF officers (and WAAF). Probably 1970s/80s era with full button opening front, attached collar and cotton/polyester mix, single pocket to front and tailor's label "Jonelle". Looks the part for re-enacting or as a filler to display under a uniform at a fraction of the cost of a wartime example. Excellent condition, collar measures as 14".​
​
SOLD
​
 RAF officer's service dress shirt (post war) |  RAF officer's service dress shirt (post war) |
|---|---|
 RAF officer's service dress shirt (post war) |
RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition.
​
Exceptional example of this now scarce oxygen mask, issued to RAF pilots and aircrews from 1943 until the end of the war and afterwards, and also worn by USAAF fighter pilots. The grey rubber is very clean; the nosewire is intact and secure with no damage to the lugs holding it in place. There are some minor surface cracks in high stress areas, mostly around the inspiration valve on the left hand side. Elastic webbing strap retains a little elasticity. Suede lining is pristine and has been trimmed to the edge of the mask, which overall appears to have never been worn. Fitted with a good Air Ministry marked Type 48 microphone.
​
SOLD
 RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition |  RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition |
|---|---|
 RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition |  RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition |
 RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition |  RAF Type G oxygen mask, excellent condition |
WWII RAF bomb arming pin.
Of the thousands of these small split pins produced, some were taken as souvenirs but most were destroyed, discarded or recycled into more munitions! Each bomb produced had one fitted - they had t be removed to "arm" the bomb ready for use. Excellent condition, retaining metal instruction tag.
​
SOLD
 WWII RAF bomb arming pin |  WWII RAF bomb arming pin |
|---|---|
 WWII RAF bomb arming pin |
RAF "Trench art" cigarette lighter made from 2 RAF buttons and a canon shell.
This really is a superb example of RAF "trench art" at its best. A cigarette lighter made from a brass cylinder (presumably from a spent canon shell) and two RAF uniform buttons. It functions well but needs a new flint and lighter fluid – I have not tried either – but the wheel turns as it should. Just a superb piece of craftsmanship. Fantastic personal accessory.​
​
SOLD
 RAF cigarette lighter made from 2 RAF buttons |  RAF cigarette lighter made from 2 RAF buttons |
|---|---|
 RAF cigarette lighter made from 2 RAF buttons |  RAF cigarette lighter made from 2 RAF buttons |
 RAF cigarette lighter made from 2 RAF buttons |
Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet.
A very scarce helmet issued as part of the immersion/survival suit at the end of the war and immediate post-war years. It comprises a modified design Type C helmet made from unlined white leather which was originally cemented to a sealed, rubberized one-piece suit intended to prevent an airman in the sea from freezing or suffering hypothermia. The design of the suit went through several modifications and the helmets were removed (no doubt with a plan to re-attach them to later models). Eventually the helmets seem to have been issued without the bulky and unpopular suits. This example shows use but no damage, it's overall grubby but intact and complete with internal wiring loom and receivers. It has a beautiful Admiralty acceptance mark in the form of a Kings Crown over and anchor embossed on the left hand side. No doubt the helmet could be cleaned up with a little effort but even as is, it displays well. Medium size (2). Produced in limited quantities, these helmets are both scarce and very desirable.​
​
SOLD
 Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |  Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |
|---|---|
 Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit HelmetDSCN2622 |  Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |
 Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |  Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |
 Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |  Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Immersion Suit Helmet |
RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete.
A rare Ops Room headset, as worn by the RAF and WAAF personnel who manned the huge charts and maps with coloured blocks indicating aerial activity during enemy air raids, watched over by senior officers — most notably during the Battle of Britain, but also throughout the Blitz and the rest of the war. These were sophisticated headsets, originally designed and made by Siemens, the German company! Set comprises a pair of metal and bakelite receivers mounted in an adjustable chrome-plated headband, wired to a chest-mounted "trumpet" microphone and terminating in a, aircraft style bell-shaped plug. Very well marked with a patent date of 1932. It shows use and some wear but is overall in excellent condition.
​
SOLD
 RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete |  RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete |
|---|---|
 RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete |  RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete |
 RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete |  RAF / WAAF Ops Room headset complete |
RAF Type M2 pressure breathing oxygen mask, unissued, still packed in box in perfect condition.
​
The Type M oxygen mask was the first purpose built pressure breathing mask developed for use in RAF fast/high altitude jets (the Type J being based on the body of the H mask). The first version was made from blue rubber and featured a simply hook fastening on the right hand side. The M2 was moulded in black rubber and had a more complicated spring clip mechanism for attaching to the helmet. This M2 mask is in absolutely pristine condition; removed from its box only for photographing, it still has all its padding, packing and tags attached. The mask is dated 1959 (repacked in 1961 on the box). It was the forerunner of the Type P and Q masks. A rare mask which had a very short service life.
​
SOLD
 RAF Type M2 pressure breathing oxygen mask unissued, still packed in box in perfect condition. |  DSCN7418 |
|---|---|
 DSCN7417 |
Scully "Air Mail" luxury privately purchased commercial flying helmet, 1930s.
​
One of, if not the, most luxurious privately purchased flying helmets of the interwar era, c1930. The beautiful Scully "Air Mail" helmet by Scully Bros. of Los Angeles was made from the softest glove leather and lined with butter soft suede. The helmet has elasticated gussets on each side for a snug fit, sturdy copper Gosport pipes and receivers, a rolled leather edge for comfort. Slightly dark staining on one side (looks like it might have been lying in oil at some time) but this looks worse in the pictures than real life and does not affect the feel or quality of the leather – there is no residual oiliness. Great label and large size. Lovely helmet.
​​
SOLD
​
​
 US Airmail pilot's helmet by Scully Bros. |  US Airmail pilot's helmet by Scully Bros. |
|---|---|
 US Airmail pilot's helmet by Scully Bros. |  DSCN5775 |
 DSCN5777 |  US Airmail pilot's helmet by Scully Bros. |
 DSCN5772 |