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Aviation Headgear - British
Flying Helmets & Goggles, Oxygen Masks
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SOLD - similar available |
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Royal Naval Air Service WWI Flying Filter Goggles - Probably the scarcest pattern of all aviator googles from any period worldwide. It is believed very few were made and it has been speculated they may never have developed further than the experimental stage and so few have survived today that most museums do not have a set on display. The only other example we have been able to locate is part of the Yale Peabody Museum's collection in the US. When Mick Prodger published his classic reference work 'Vintage Flying Helmets' he was unable to source a set for inclusion. Each set was contained within a custom made wooden case that held 8 pairs of coloured lenses (or officially designated "light filters") that were intended to assist with locating and spotting enemy ships and submarines from the air, under different climatic conditions. Some were for looking through haze, whilst others were for spotting oil on the surface of the water, or again for locating U Boat shadows under the water or even enemy gun flashes over the trenches, where RNAS pilots served with distinction alongside their RFC colleagues. The set when issued included an instruction manual giving directions for use and the most appropriate filters to use, depending on operational area and prevailing light conditions.
This superb example is complete and despite being over 100 years old appears to be in unissued condition. They were discovered in a building close to Kalafrana on the southernmost tip of Malta, which was a seaplane base between 1917 and 1946, when it was transferred to the Royal Navy. In WWII RAF Kalafrana was home to 228 Squadron flying Sunderland's and remained in use until the 1960's. Clearly these are the flying goggles that time forgot, until recently re discovered. The booklet shows some aging and the staples are rusted but is still readable and indicates a print date of December 1917. Seeing the historical value of the booklet and its somewhat tender state we have had a very convincing replica reprinted that can be read without fear of damaging the original and both are included within the grouping. The original wooden transit box is sound and as well as the two pairs of filters currently fitted to the goggles it comes with a further 6 filters thus making up the full set. Each pair of filters is numbered and whilst showing some age related wear and fading it is amazing they have survived at all. The goggles themselves are virtually mint and the tan leather is still soft and pliable; the cloth bound edge is fur lined and remains pristine, as are the face pads. The brown drab fabric backstrap is complete but has lost its elasticity over the last 100 years ; this would have been secured behind the users head by means of a metal ring and hook. The second image attached shows how these goggles can be displayed with an approriate Mk I flying helmet but this is for display purposes only and is not included in the sale.
This RNAS issue set is undoubtedly a museum quality item that rarely, if ever, appears for sale on the collectors market, although Historic Flying Clothing has recently sold a similar set but this is only the 4th pair David has ever had.
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£450.00
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RAF Type 48 Magnetic Microphone - A standard WWII example of the type fitted to the E, E* and G pattern oxygen masks. It carries an embossed stores reference code 10A/12570 to the face plate as well as the microphone 'On' and 'Off' switch. The microphone is wired up with a wartime specification flecked short cord and a two pin female connector to plug into an internally wired RAF C, D or E pattern flying helmet. An identical example is shown on page 46 top left of Mick Prodger's excellent Luftwaffe V RAF Flight clothing book. We discovered a small quantity of these in a forgotten warehouse and these appear to never have been issued and when they are gone they are gone. Like all our kit for sale as a collectable but we would not be surprised if this is not still in good working order.
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Halycon 'Battle of Britain' Mk 8 Flying Goggles - Halycon manufacture probably the most authentic replica of the wartime RAF Mk VIII goggles, although they are somewhat misnamed at this model did not enter service with the RAF until October 1943 - three years after the Battle of Britain! That technicality aside these can be realistically described as 'mint and boxed' and appear to have never been used ;they even come with the original Halcyon users guide and tissue wrapping paper. These are the top specification model and closely match those worn by RAF pilots in WWII and early post war-see our final image attached to compare. Manufactured here in the UK they feature padded brown exterior leather and soft beige leather face pads that are hand stitched onto the solid brass RAF blue painted frames. The goggles carry the traditional angled clear polycarbonate lenses and are completed with a brown elastic backstrap. The chances are your will not be flying a Spitfire or Lancaster these days but they remain the perfect choice if you happen to own a Tiger Moth or for that matter a Norton Commando or a Triumph TR2! For those planning ahead, these would make the ideal stocking filler this Christmas for the aviator or classic bike or car enthusiast in your life!
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Private Purchase Flying Helmet by John Barker & Co Ltd of Kensington - An original period flying or motoring helmet that could date from WWI or possibly from the 1920's. Constructed in soft tan leather it remains in remarkably good condition with minor staining that adds to its vintage patina. The helmet has cut outs for the ears with wind deflection pads in front reminiscent of the design used during WWI by RFC aviators. The brow of the helmet comes to a slight point in the middle, characteristic of other Barker helmets that we have seen.
Inside is blanket lined again in generally good condition but a little wear as you would expect in a helmet of this age. To the crown is a woven label confirming this was made for and retailed by John Barker and Co Ltd of Kensington, London W. John Barkers & Co Ltd was a department store located on Kensington High Street and established in partnership between John Barker and James Whitehead, who later became later Lord Mayor of London, in 1870. The business It was subsequently sold to the House of Fraser in 1957. The chin strap and buckle remain sound. Whilst no size is marked it is a good size and we would guess equates to an RAF size 3 or 4 helmet and would fit a head of about 60 cm or 7.5". This would be the perfect for your classic car or aircraft or the accessory of choice for all those vintage events you will be attending this summer!
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Royal Flying Corps Issue 'Featherweight' Flying Goggles - Whilst not marked with makers details, this fine set is of the Triplex design. The 'Triplex, Goggle Mask and Lens Co., Ltd', was set up separately from 'Triplex Safety Glass Co. Ltd' when the latter's 'A. B. Aero Mask' was adopted by the British Government for the RFC in 1916 and it seems likely this early set dates from this time. The design certainly featured in advertisements taken out by Triplex in 'Flight' magazine in 1916, which were made available with either clear or tinted lenses.
Our example is of the latter type and the lenses, that are in immaculate condition, carry a pale yellow tint. The chromed metal frame is hinged over the nose bridge, with sprung fabric sides and fur fitted on the inside, for added comfort. What lifts this set from the scarce to the exceptionally rare is that they carry the RFC aviation issue property mark of a Broad Arrow over an 'A' to the top of each lens frame. The majority of this pattern of goggles seems to have been private purchase items, whilst others may well have been used for early motoring. We can however guarantee this set was issued to Royal Flying Corps aircrew, and these are the first example so marked we have ever seen. Whilst we have no detail of the owner they came in with his nearly as scarce 'Fowndes' pattern gauntlets and his private purchase flying helmet, and were used together in WWI. The set is fitted with an elasticated adjustable backstrap that shows signs of service wear and whilst it has lost much of its elasticity it is fine for display purposes, and is complete with metal adjusters.
This pattern was the precursor to the RAF 'Mk II' pattern goggles, introduced in 1928 and despite being obsolete by WWII it remained current up until the Battle of Britain in 1940. The RAF Mk II is now a very scarce set itself but these RFC issue 'Featherweight' goggles are very much scarcer. This is a one-off opportunity that we are unlikely to ever be able to repeat, so grab the chance to add them to your collection whilst you can!
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Royal Flying Corps Private Purchase Flying helmet by Dunhill - In WWI manufacturers and retailers cottoned on to the new and urgent demand for quality flight clothing. In the early stages of WWI virtually no issue kit existed so until the Ministry pulled their socks up those who could afford it had to rely on commercial sources. The Dunhill advertisement attached at the end of our listing is interesting. It is a copy of an original ad from 'Aeroplane' magazine and is dated 1917. It is quite clear Dunhill were by then offering flight clothing made to ministry patterns and specifications and you can see RFC pattern flying gauntlets, Fug Boots, Mk I goggles mask and Triplex lightweight goggles illustrated. Even when issue items came on stream some (mainly Officers) preferred to purchase privately themselves in the hope of getting better quality and as a result the dividing line between issue and private purchase kit is often blurred. In the advertisement the' flying cap ' shown is of very similar design to our example.
Our helmet remains in remarkably original condition, despite probably being over 100 years old. The full grain leather remains soft and flexible, the stitching is strong and no damage or repairs. The helmet is partially fur lined with blanket lining in the crown. Generally, the fur is good with just slight moulting in places. The chin strap is spot on and all the metal eyelets are unusually still in place. The buckle is near mint condition and in itself is interesting as it is the larger size and leather covered. On RFC issue helmets the Ministry insisted on leather covered buckles (we assume due to metal freezing at 10,000' in winter) and this is a feature Dunhill have clearly incorporated from the issue pattern. The font flap is held in the up position by a stud and can be raised or lowered according to preference; the female popper is marked ADR-England.
Inside the helmet is equally good. The fabric lining shows light service wear only and the woven Dunhill's label is a real bonus so we know the helmets origins and with a quality London brand like Dunhill it is likely to have been an expensive helmet back in the day. Sadly it is not named and we have no provenance with this example. Whilst the size is not marked the helmet would equate to about a size 58. The Triplex 'lightweight' pattern goggles shown in the opening picture are for display purposes only and are not included in this sale.
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WRAF Officer Service Dress Cap - An excellent early post war example of an Officers pattern Women's Royal Air Force SD cap that are becoming increasingly difficult to find. This one is particularly interesting as sewn inside the plastic covering the makers label is a name card detailing the original owner as Flight Officer F. H. Wilson and below Womens Royal Air Force. This more or less covers the makers label but from the small part we can see we believe indicates the cap was made by Moss Bros of Covent Garden, London.
We have carried out limited research on the original owner and it seems possible she served during WWII as we have identified a WAAF Corporal F. H. Wilson who was notified as being wounded in action by Communique 436 and this was reconfirmed by an entry in 'Flight' of 26th August 1944. She then surfaces again on 22nd May 1950 as Flying Officer Wilson service number 2089639, when she was appointed as Assistant to the Provost Marshall. In November 1956, she is still assisting the Provost Marshall of the RAF. This position was first created in 1920, and had responsibility for the RAF Police; by the end of WWII, the strength of the RAF had reached 1.2 million personnel and the RAF Police had 500 commissioned officers, including 55 from the WAAF. Our research indicated the position was held by Air Commodore H. J. G. E. Proud from 1954 – 1956 and he was succeeded by Commodore W. I. G Kerby who became Provost Marshall during 1956, so both would have been Flight Officer Wilson's Boss 63 years ago. Her final promotion, still in the Provost Branch, is dated 1st January 1958 when she took the rank of Flight Office and she finally retitred from the RAF on 25th June 1963.
In view of the promotions detailed above and the rank shown on the label this cap would appear to date from around 1958 but despite its age it remains in remakably good issued condition. The cloth is generally very clean, with just a minor snag under the visor. The cap band carries a period Kings Crown RAF badge, showing minor age wear, as do the chin strap retaining buttons. Inside the lining shows normal wear, as you would expect. No size is marked but the physical measurement taken inside the hat band is 21.25" circumference or 54 cm. In summary this is an early post war example in above the average condition and with the added benefit of known provenance that is worthy of further research.
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RAF Other Ranks Field Service Forage Cap - A very clean example and whilst not dated almost certainly originating from WWII. The cloth fabric, which is coarser material than used on the Officers version, is in very clean fresh condition and with just one minuscule moth nibble as shown in our listing photograph. The cap carries the standard Other Ranks brass RAF badge surmounted by a Kings Crown fixed in position by the correct retaining pin. To the front are two RAF brass buttons, again with Kings Crown. Inside is equally clean although any maker or size detail this cap may have carried has been worn away. An above the average example that would sit happily in any collection.
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RAF Officers Visor Cap - Whilst this cap is not named we were advised when purchased it belonged to a Flight Lieutenant C. Cole who served as a Navigator in WWII. His no 1 uniform was also offered for sale as a separate lot but sadly we were outbid on it but I had the chance to inspect and his medal ribbons indicated he was awarded an MBE. Some limited research indicates it probably belonged to Flight Lieutenant Clifford Cole, service number143777, who remained with the RAF post war and was awarded the MBE in the New Year's Honours 1st January 1953 and it seems highly likely he is our man.
This is really crisp example and made by the quality makers Bates and embossed on the green felt lining is 'Bates of 21, Jermyn Street, St James, London' and also marked below 'Light Weight'. It is also stamped in gold leaf with makers details on the leather hat band. It is not named to the original owner and looks as though it has had minimal, if any, service wear as overall condition is really excellent. The air force blue cloth all in really nice condition and no signs at all of the dreaded moth. It features an impressive Kings Crown cap badge with crisp brass eagle below and good leather chin strap. Like almost all RAF visor caps we see this one is not dated but with Kings Crown badge certainly wartime or early post war issue. No size is marked but the physical measurement taken inside the hat band it is 21 1/2" or 54.5 cm.
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British War Department Issue Flight Test Helmet - A modest but often overlooked example that would sit happily in a specialist or general aviation collection. We have previously listed this type as 'an RAF training helmet' based on Jim Weld's reference booklet description that even lists it with an RAF stores reference number 22C/129. We are however now more inclined to go with Mick Prodger's description and use as detailed in his definitive 'Vintage Flying Helmets' reference book:-
'A simple unwired helmet made available to flight test departments of various aircraft production facilities. Although their exact purpose is not known, it seems possible that these helmets were issued to visiting dignitaries, VIP's and other personnel who may have been passengers during demonstration flights. The helmet was constructed of light brown waterproof fabric and lined with soft blanket wool. Snap down ear flaps were fitted with a brow strap that enabled the helmet to be tightened. Most of these helmets appear to have been manufactured in or around 1940 and were War Department marked. Many bear additional makings indicating they were the property of aircraft manufacturers such as Hanley Page or De Havilland (often stamped on the chin strap canvas). This pattern of helmet may also have been available to ATA and Civil Air Guard pilots'. As ever we are indebted to Mick for this detailed analysis but it is of course possible back in 1940 this pattern may have seen use with RAF aircrew or elsewhere, as the need arose.
Our example closely aligns to this description and carries an ink stamp to the wool lining 'Q', below 'WD' with broad arrow and '90'. In addition the manufacturers paper label is still in place indicating it was made by M. Kaye and is a size 6 1/2-6 7/8 and is dated 1940. It does not carry any other property marks and seeing the paper label is still in situ it could well be unissued. When these helmets do show up one issue tends to be the canvas tends to harden and become a little stiff and brittle and this is no exception. The chin strap exhibits minor cracking as does one of the fold back ear covers. Despite this it remains in very clean original condition and it displays well on an appropriate 'head', as shown in our illustration photograph, but would just need to be handled with care. As with all our stock if you have interest drop us an e mail and we can supply a range of detailed pictures. Other examples of this helmet are currently listed elsewhere at prices from £100 upwards with one at an eye watering £400 plus! Ours is rather more realistically priced.
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RAF Air Rank Officers Visor Cap - A really crisp post war example, as issued to senior officers above the rank of Group Captain, for use by Air Commodore, Air Vice Marshall or at the top of the tree Air Chief Marshall. This pattern differs from that used by a Group Captain as these caps only have a single band of 'scrambled egg' on the patent peak peak but here it carries two rows. The leather hat band is stamped with the original owners initials 'ECB'. When purchased we were not aware of who the owner was but with the assistance of our customer 'JW' he has now been idntified as Air Vice Marshal Eric Cecil Bates, AFC, CBE, born in 1906 and received his final posting in 1975. Bates was an Australian pilot who flew with 57 Squadron RAF, and was subsequently CO of No 101 Squadron, when it was equipped with Blenheim I's. He was promoted from Group Captain to Air Commodore 1st Jan 1953, so confirms our thoughts on the date of this cap. When he retired from from the RAF, he became Principle of the College of Air Training at Hamble until 1971.
Overall condition of this cap is excellent and no moth damage to the cloth and just minor age related marks to the top. The double row of gold bullion wire for rank shows just normal age tarnishing. The small Queens Crown Air Rank cap badge in matching condition and is stitched to the black centre band and to the cap. The leather chin strap is also excellent and just normal age related marks.
The interior is equally crisp. The inside of the peak is made from green composite material, to a similar specification as wartime examples. The leather headband and the green felt inner lining are both stamped with the makers details 'Bates Hatter, 21 Jermyn Street, St James, London' and 'Light Weight'. This company was one of the most prestigious UK hatters, being established by Edward Bates in the 19th century when he opened a shop on Sloane Street but moved to Jermyn Street in St James' in 1898. Although the Bates name is still current we understand Bates have not been a contractor to the RAF since about 1975. No size is marked but it is too small for my 23 7/8th (61 cm) head so probably a medium. Despite being post war original examples in good condition don't turn up very often and this one would be hard to improve on for an Air Rank issued cap of this ag with the added bonus we now have the proveance to support it and only fitting a Bates manufactured cap was issued to Eric Cecil Bates!
Whilst we have your attention can we also highlight the other standard RAF Officers cap we also have listed in this section, item 5328. This was also manufactured by Bates, is in stunning condition and with a Kings Crown badge is likely to date from the early post war period.
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White Cotton Flying/Motoring Helmet - On offer is a very basic unlined white cotton flying or motoring helmet. It has no provision for any communication equipment but would have given a certain amount of hair protection from wind buffeting in the air or on the road. It does not carry any manufacturers label and the only information gleaned from the inside is a pencil size mark of 6.75 and a confirming paper label giving the same information. The only other clue we have to its origins is a '1940' ink date stamp to the chin strap. This may be original but it is possible it has been added to this helmet to sex it up and create more demand. Actually we would date it as being more likely to have originated in the 1930's and whilst the helmet is the real deal the jury is out over the date! It certainly looks the part and gives that classic 'Amy Johnson' (or Keith Park) look for a very modest price!
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RCAF/RAF Flying Helmet Sponge Rubber Inserts - On offer are a matched pair of original WWII RCAF marked flying helmet receiver inserts. These were used on both RAF and RCAF B type flying helmets as well as with both the early and later patterns of the FAA C-type helmets. Originals hardly ever turn up these days and many that do are brittle and perished are of no use in serving their intended purpose. These are an absolutely pristine set and both fully stamped inside RCAF, stores reference number 22C/16 as well as the RCAF property mark of a broad arrow within a part circle. Both pads also carry a 'DU' stamp and we speculate this could refer to the manufacturer, perhaps DuPont? One is also stamped 'HD'. RAF issue examples carry a different stores reference code 22C/67 but are essentially identical so these would display equally well on both types of helmet. The final pictures attached show similar foams in place on an RAF B helmet (picture taken from our sold archive) and as can be seen these give the finishing touch and the characteristic look of these iconic Battle of Britain period helmets. We only have the one set available and when they are gone they are gone.
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RAF Mk VIII Flying Goggles - A very clean example of this classic design introduced into service in 1943 and remained on the inventory until the 1970's. The leather face pad is in excellent condition with the inside showing evidence of normal service wear. The brass frame and central adjuster are well above average, with only minor paint rub. Clear lenses are fitted and are without the normal fogging problems. Original back strap with correct adjusters and still good elasticity. Decent Mk VIII's are now getting hard to find and prices are rising all the time. This set displays well with the FAA helmet which we have also just listed.
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Mk IVB Flying Goggles - On offer are a really crisp pair of RAF Mk IVB flying goggles stores reference 22c/167. The frame is in very good condition with no distortion and virtually all the original paint in place. The set are fitted with very good clear lenses but no provision for the anti-glare flip shield. The nosepiece leather show some age wear as does the back strap ;the spring sections are exceptional. The leather strap carries embossed 'AM, Crown, Ref. No. 22C/167 Goggles Mk IV B'.
On the reverse side everything is in order but the rubber face pads are as ever hardened and a little distorted but on display this does not notice. Despite being the most 'common' of the Mk IV series goggles these are now getting hard to find and these are better than the norm. The pattern saw service in the Battle of Britain and would display perfectly with an RAF B helmet that it was designed specifically to be used in conjunction with.
Please note the B helmet and D mask illustrated here are only shown for dispalay purposes and it is just the Mk IVB goggles that are on sale.
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Fleet Air Arm 1st Pattern N type Flying Helmet - This pattern is often incorrectly called FAA D type but they actually have their own designation which is 'N' Type flying helmet. The chin strap protector is stamped 22C but as advised by Mick Prodger this helmet did not carry a stores reference suffix number but was referenced as 'NIV', meaning "Not In Vocabulary. "This fine example is a very early externally wired 1st pattern with contra goggle straps and provision for use with the D, as well as later E, E* and G masks. An oxygen mask clip has been added so it appears to have been used in conjunction with one of these later masks.
We have had a very few of these over the years and this is well and truly the best example to date. Firstly it is a desirable size 4 (7 1/2 – 7 3/4). Intended for use in tropical/desert climates in the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa it incorporates a neck flap, exactly as the RAF pattern D helmet, to protect the wearer from the sun, a real issue in the open cockpit of a Fairy Swordfish. The outer fabric and the flap is very lightly soiled, commensurate with service use. The oxygen mask and goggle snaps are very good and retain virtually all of their original coatings. The helmet is fitted with the characteristic zipped leather receiver housings that give these helmets their distinctive look ; both are very good condition with no damage or scuffing and have excellent brass zips still fitted with elongated leather pull tabs associated with FAA helmets. The earpieces have their original receiver carriers in place and are fitted with a very good pair of set of original foam rubber cushions, one being RCAF marked. Below one earpiece is an ink 'AM' stamp with Kings Crown. The chin strap Bennett buckle clip is exceptional with the full leather cover remaining in place with no damage; the chin strap is missing chrome end but otherwise no issues at all.
Inside is equally crisp. The neck flap has soiling where you would expect and just minor grub on the satin lining which on these helmets is nearly always badly stained or damaged or both. The ear doughnuts are also satin covered and just one minor nick to one. The felt brow lining that is prone to wear or moth damage is close to mint. The helmet is not named and sadly the history has been lost down the years but it most certainly would have a story to tell. These first pattern FAA N helmets are often missing from many collections and are actually significantly harder to source than the RAF B type. Grab the opportunity to add this one to the collection whilst you have the chance!
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RAF Officer Visor cap - An unusual example as it carries a woven makers label to the inner quilted crown lining indicating 'Made to Order, English Tailoring, Bernard Cailor, Alexandria'. So seems almost certain this was made in for an RAF Officer serving in Egypt in WWII. It is named on leather headband but the writing is now indistinct due to service wear and the passing years. The cap is in pretty good shape but has a few small moth nips but hardly noticeable on display. It features a good crisp Kings Crown cap badge but with a little Verdigris on the brass eagle; the leather chin strap is in perfect condition. No size is marked but measured around the inside of the hat band is 21.25" or 53.3 cm. Whilst not mint a good probably late wartime example sensibly priced.
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Royal Naval Air Service WWI Flying Filter Goggles - Probably the scarcest pattern of all aviator googles from any period worldwide. It is believed very few were made and it has been speculated they may never have developed further than the experimental stage and so few have survived today that most museums do not have a set on display. The only other example we have been able to locate is part of the Yale Peabody Museum's collection in the US. When Mick Prodger published his classic reference work 'Vintage Fling Helmets' he was unable to source a set for inclusion. It is understood they were experimental when first issued to Royal Naval Air Service pilots in about 1917. Each set was contained within a custom made wooden case that held 8 pairs of coloured lenses (or officially designated "light filters") that were intended to assist with locating and spotting enemy ships and submarines from the air under different conditions. Some were for looking through haze, whilst others were for spotting oil on the surface of the water, or again for locating U Boat shadows under the water or even enemy gun flashed over the trenches, where RNAS pilots served with distinction alongside their RFC colleagues. The set when issued included an instruction manual giving directions for use and the most appropriate filters to use depending on operational area and prevailing light conditions.
This superb example is complete and despite being over 100 years old appears to be in unissued condition. They were discovered in a building close to Kalafrana on the southernmost tip of Malta, which was a seaplane base between 1917 and 1946, when it was transferred to the Royal Navy. In WWII RAF Kalafrana was home to 228 Squadron flying Sunderland's and remained in use until the 1960's. Clearly these are the flying goggles that time forgot, until recently re discovered. The booklet shows some aging and the staples are rusted but is still readable and indicates a print date of December 1917. Seeing the historical value of the booklet and its somewhat tender state we have had a very convincing replica reprinted that can be read without fear of damaging the original and both are included within the grouping. The original wooden transit box is sound and as well as the two pairs of filters currently fitted to the goggles it comes with a further 6 filters thus making up the full se. Each pair of filters is numbered and whilst showing some age related wear and fading it is amazing they have survived at all. The goggles themselves are virtually mint and the tan leather is still soft and pliable; the cloth bound edge is fur lined and remains pristine, as are the face pads. The olive drab fabric backstrap is complete but has lost its elasticity over the last 100 years and now needs to be handled carefully; this would have been secured behind the users head by means of a ring and hook arrangement.
It is staggering these goggles have survived at all for over 100 years and this set is undoubtedly a museum quality item that rarely, if ever, appears for sale on the collectors market. As with all our stock additional photographs are available on request to enable you to check out the detail for yourself as described.
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Private Purchase Goggle Mask Flying - A very fine example of the private purchase pattern of similar design to the RFC Mk I and Mk II Ministry issue mask goggles, a set of which we have also listed today. These invariably do not carry any identifying marks so we are unable in this instance to say when or by whom they were made but interestingly an identical set is illustrated on page 136, bottom right middle photograph, of Mick Prodger's excellent reference book 'Vintage Flying Helmets'.
This set are in apparently unissued condition with the leather of the mask soft and supple with all the original brown finish in place. They feature tear drop frames in aluminium with hinged outer sections to facilitate lens changes. Clear lenses are fitted and are well above the average with just minor fogging to the edges. The interior is blanket lined with synthetic fur trip around the lens frames. The original cloth back strap is fitted with just minor rust to the metal adjuster slides. A very crisp example that would be impossible to improve upon and could date from WWI through until the 1930's.
Whist not quite a desirable as the Mk I or II issue versions still a very good set and at a significantly keener price!
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RNAS WWI Flying Filter Goggles - Probably the scarcest pattern of WWI flying goggles and so few have survived that most museums do not have a set on display and the only other example we have been able to find is part of the Yale Peabody Museum collection in the US. When Mick Prodger published his classic reference work 'Vintage Fling Helmets' he was unable to source a set for inclusion although he has since owned a single pair. It is understood they were experimental when first issued to Royal Naval Air Service pilots in1917. Each set was contained within a custom made wooden case that held 16 coloured lenses (or officially designated "light filters") that were intended to assist with locating and spotting enemy ships and submarines from the air under different conditions. Some were for looking through haze, whilst others were for spotting oil on the surface of the water, or again for locating shadows under the water or even enemy gun flashed over the trenches. The set was completed when issued with an instruction manual giving directions for use and even an address for pilots to write to with their observations as to how these worked in practice!
This superb example is complete and despite being over 100 years old appears to be in unissued condition. It was discovered in a building close to Kalafrana on the southernmost tip of Malta which was a seaplane base between 1917 and 1946, when it was transferred to the Royal Navy. In WWII RAF Kalafrana was home to 228 Squadron flying Sunderland's and remained in use until the 1960's. Clearly these are the flying goggles that time forgot, until recently re discovered. The booklet shows some insect damage to the cover and the staples are rusted but is still readable and indicates a print date of June 1918. The box is sound and as well as the filters currently fitted to the goggles it comes with a further 6 filters thus making up the full set; each pair of filters is numbered and whilst showing some age fading but are undamaged. The goggles themselves are virtually mint and the tan leather is still soft and pliable; the cloth bound edge is fur lined and remains pristine, as are the face pads. The fabric backstrap is complete but has lost its elasticity over the last 100 years and now needs to be handled carefully. The strap is marked in pencil with a 'K' and the metal clip and adjustment clip are rust free.
This set is undoubtedly a museum quality item and if you happened to be a Museum curator or a private collector you will need to move fast to secure them for your collection.
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Private Purchase Flying Helmet - An original period flying or motoring helmet that probably dates from the 1920's and was purchased by us from a retired Tiger Moth pilot who last used it in the 1980's. Constructed in soft tan leather it remains in remarkably good condition with no issues to report and just the odd mark or stain that adds to the vintage patination. The helmet has triangular cut outs for the ears with wind deflection scoops mounted in a rear facing position. The brow of the helmet carries a small peak.
Inside is lined in tan cloth and is again in excellent original condition. It carries no makers label so we are unable to ascertain who made this one but it is typical of private purchase flying or motoring helmets of the early post war period and used into the 1930's. The chin strap and buckle remain sound. Whilst no size is marked it is a decent size and we would guess equates to an RAF size 3 or 4 helmet and would fit a head of about 60 cm or 7.5". Like the other helmet we have listed today this too would be the perfect accessory for your classic car or aircraft or the finishing touch for all those vintage events you will be attending this summer!
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RFC Goggles Mask Flying Mk II - In the early days of aviation flight clothing was often adapted from civilian or motoring apparel and the practice continued into the early years of WWI. In the case of goggles many were private purchase and the mask model gave excellent face protection when used in conjunction with the RFC cowl helmet. By 1916/17 the WD started issuing an official flying goggles which were designated the Mk I, stores reference 22C/10 which were fitted with clear lenses and the Mk II, stores reference 22C/11, which were identical but featured tinted lenses. The same pattern was also sold by Triplex as a private purchase item post war and was used up until the 1930's. Clearly the issue ones are the most desirable, scarce and as a result the most expensive to purchase today. Here we have a more or less text book example of this pattern.
The leather face mask remains supple and retains most of its original brown finish. To the left side and printed in gold leaf is the googles designation 'Goggles mask Flying Mk II' so these are the tinted lens option; the lenses are without damage and are not suffering from fogging as is normally the case. The manufacturers details are also shown as being 'The Triplex Mask & Lens Co Ltd' followed by the all important RFC property mark of a War Department Broad Arrow and an 'A ', designating the Air Branch, so no doubts this is a genuine RFC issue set. Clearly with use the gold leaf stamping invariably wears off or fades so this set is exceptional and the designation remains crisp and clear despite the 100 + years since it came out of the factory. The metal lens frame is blackened; early examples had chrome or nickel frames and the black variant was introduced to prevent glare. The classic 'teardrop ' shape will be recognised in the next development of RAF goggles of the 1930's, also confusingly referred to as Mk II goggles, which remained in service until the Battle of Britain despite being technically superseded by the less favoured Mk III and IIIA patterns. A patent number 116597 is stamped into the frame. Inside the mask is lined with leather and fur trimming to around the lenses. The back strap is a simple adjustable elastic strap that shows some age wear and stretching but remains sound.
In summary a very fine and desirable RFC issue example that rarely turn up for sale in any condition so grab them whilst you can.
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RAF Mk IV Flying Goggles 22C/111 - The Mk IV series of flying goggle, stores reference 22C/111, was designed specifically for use with the RAF B type flying helmet, with the large elasticated loop straps designed to encircle the bulbous zipped receiver housings. First introduced by the Air Ministry in June 1940, the concept behind the design was sound but the manufacture of them proved a nightmare! Our set are the incredibly scarce original variant and features a complicated double panel laminated glass hinged lens arrangement, with the outer lenses frame swivelling outwards. The design was further compromised as the sun filter 'flip shield' with an external coiled spring arrangement was found to be incredibly weak and invariably broke off in service.
The Mk IV were also found to be heavy in use, so with all these problems the Air Ministry specified the Mk IV A of a similar deign but without the hinged windows but made of a plastic material. These however proved to be hardly any lighter and very few were made and were in turn replaced by the final variant the Mk IVB, which is the pattern that most often surfaces today. These redressed many of the issues described, were more robust, eliminated the opening window frames and had a stronger flip shield arrangements. Weight remained an issue, although the introduction of riveted guide plates to locate the goggles on the B helmet helmet, helped to an extent. The 1VB was issued in some quantity and remains the most common of the variants that turn up today.
Our example is a rare early survivor and is pretty much in text book condition. The black painted frame is excellent with just a little wear around the flip shield mount; the delicate flip shield, stores reference 22C/113 'Screens anti -glare', as previously described, is surprisingly undamaged. The lenses are above the average with just minor fogging. The leather nose cover and chamois backing are excellent, but the black rubber face pads are slightly distorted and hardened, as always seems to be the case, but this does not detract from a display point of view. The elastic loops and sprung cloth covered straps are in top condition, as is the leather back strap with good clear embossing with nice firm Kings Crown, A.M. Mk IV 22C/111 and makers details Levers Optical Co Ltd.
Not much more than we can add other than Mk IV's in any condition hardly ever appear on the market now and to find a pair in top condition as these is an exceptional opportunity that we are unlikely to be able to repeat anytime soon.
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RAF 1930 Pattern Flying Helmet with History - Often overlooked by collectors but an early and important part of the evolution of RAF issue flying helmets. This design replaced the RFC Mk I helmet and was the predecessor of the B helmet that entered service in 1935. Issued against stores reference 22C/57 many helmets were modified by the addition of flap type receiver housings, designated 22C/57, to accommodate radio-telephones or acoustic Gosport Tubes. Others are documented to have had 'B' type receiver cups fitted and adapted to take the D oxygen mask and so served into the early part of WWII.
This example remains as issued without flaps being fitted and the dark chestnut leather remains in remarkably good condition. These helmets carried a wide chin strap and a large buckle fastening ; the strap remains in sound condition although three of the metal eyelets are missing. The leather covered buckle, often a weak point, is close to mint. Inside the chamois lining is excellent but shows normal service wear commensurate with use. In the crown is an original manufacturers label and whist the writing has more or less worn away we can just decipher the maker is H.Bendall who went on to supply the 'B' helmet to the Air Ministry. We can not decipher the size or date although an ink stamp shows '9' and '33' so have assumed it was manufactured in 1933. It also carries a further ink stamp that M +2. The only real issue with this helmet, as is often the case with the 1930 pattern, is the interlining has hardened and crystallised but this does not impact from a display point of view. The velvet brow and chin strap lining remains sound.
What makes this already scarce and early helmet even more interesting is that it comes with provenance of the original owner, having been purchased from his family back in 2003, since when it has resided in my own personal collection. It was owned by Cecil Ferdinand Chinery, who was born 1 March 1896 and who served with the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) in the last year of WWI. Post war he transferred to the fledgling RAF and served in Palestine and also flew in various air displays at Hendon in the interwar years. He continued to serve into WWII but in a non-flying capacity, including time based at RAF Cardington. The family told me they had had a photograph of Wing Commander Chinery shaking hands with King George VI whilst on an official visit, but now sadly mislaid. He was appointed a Commander of the Military Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire Military Division (OBE) on 11 July 1940. All too often the stories associated with the kit we purchase has been lost down the years but this is certainly the exception and a letter confirming the provenance will be supplied to the new custodian.
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Private Purchase 1930's Flying Helmet by S.Lewis - A classic example of an inter War period flying helmet manufactured by S.Lewis. Inside the crown of the helmet is stitched a high quality woven label confirming ''S. Lewis's OF RACING FLYING & MOTOR CLOTHING FAME' with an address at 27, CARBURTON STREET LONDON. W.1. TEL. MUSEUM 4793 followed by 'No Connection with any other firm.' This was added to avoid confusion, as another manufacturer of the period operated under the trading title of 'D.Lewis of Great Portland Street, London' and the two firms wanted to establish their own identities. We have found a period S.Lewis advertisement on line featuring an identical helmet dated 1930 (marked at 25/9 to those of us who remember 'old' money! and the pattern remained in use throughout the 1930's and into WWII.
Whilst a private purchase item many RAF pilots preferred to use these in preference to the issued item and Bob Stanford Tuck is a classic example. Added to the fact all private flying was suspended once war was declared it is safe to assume many of this pattern served with the RAF and this text book example would make a fine addition to an RAF or general collection. The dark brown leather is very soft and supple and is close to mint condition. It features an adjustable wide chinstrap for added comfort and press stud leather earflaps for use with Gosport tubes which were fitted when we purchased and were offered as a standard fitting back in the 1930's. These remain in very good original condition with no fraying to the tube covers. The brow carries a leather adjustment strap to customise the helmet's fit whilst to the rear is a buckle fastening goggle retaining strap. Inside is equally crisp with signs of just very light use. The remains of the paper size label is still in place confirming the size is possibly 7 1/2 but part of the label is missing ; having tried it on it probably equates to an RAF size 3 helmet. The top specification manufacturers label has already been mentioned but an added bonus is the original owner has inked in his name one Robin Sykes. Sadly we have no history on him and whilst two 'Sykes' were members of 'The Few' in the Battle of Britain neither was called Robin. Interestingly however a picture of Sub Lieutenant John Humphrey Sykes in the excellent 'Men of the Battle of Britain' appears to show him wearing a similar helmet, thus reconfirming many of this pattern saw RAF use in WWII.
In summary a very fine example that fully meets the oft quoted collectors maxim of ' always buy the best example you can afford' and this one is realistically priced with the added benefit of being fitted with Gosport tubes so the helmet is offered in service condition. All that is lacking is the DH Tiger Moth to plug it into!
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RAF B Type Helmet - Superb original helmet as issued without receiver cups fitted. Stores ref. 22C/65, size 2. Everything complete and working, hard to better.
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RAF H Type Oxygen Mask - First issued in early 1944 the H mask replaced the earlier G pattern and it remained in RAF service, with minor modifications, for the remainder of the 20th century. This example Stores Reference 6D/2244098 is broad arrow marked and was manufactured in April 1982 and has never been issued. When purchased it came complete in its original packaging with attached documentation that confirmed it was checked by RAF stores in December 1997 and subsequently declared 'Serviceable' by 16 Maintenance Unit Stafford. We have only opened the packaging today to take the photographs. This example is marked 'Small' and is fitted with an Amplivox 13100 microphone and mint communication cord and female plug. A full elastic harness is fitted, again in unissued condition, with snaps and clips to use with RAF C, D & E pattern flying helmets as well as the later G. The harness also features the reversible 'quick connect' loops for use with the later metal oxygen mask hooks. If the mask is required without the elastic webbing harness please contact us for a separate price. Despite now being over 36 years old this example is in fantastic condition with only issue being some light storage staining to the inside chamois leather lining. Like all items offered on the site this is for sale as a collectable only, although subject to the correct checks we feel it is highly likely it is still in working condition but we can't guarantee this. These masks are no longer in production so grab the opportunity now to purchase one of the last examples whilst our very limited stocks remain. When they are gone they are gone.
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RAF Mk VIII Flying Goggles - This pattern, issues against stores reference 22C/930, were the final and most successful of the RAF issue flying goggles of the Second World War. Introduced officially in October 1943, they were not supplied to aircrew until the earlier stocks of it's predecessor the Mk VII were exhausted. When they did reach the squadrons they were immediately well received, being much lighter than the Mk VII and provided a secure and comfortable fit on the C, D and E flying helmets of the time. They continued on the RAF inventory until made obsolete by the introduction of the Mk I Bone Dome flying helmet although they remained an issue item up until the 1970's.
This set has clearly seen service use with some paint rub to the brass frames, but remain in good original condition. This set is currently fitted with tinted lenses, although when issued the set would also have included a clear pair now absent;these show some fogging but still display well. The original back strap is in place; the elastic is a little stretched but is fine for display in a collection or with an appropriate flying helmet. The leather padding is in excellent condition, as is the leather nose cover. If you like your kit to be mint and boxed these are probably not for you but as a set that has clearly seen service they are ideal and are offered at an entry level price to reflect their current condition
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RAF H Type Oxygen Mask - First issued in early 1944 the H mask replaced the earlier G pattern and it remained in RAF service, with minor modifications, for the remainder of the 20th century. This example Stores Reference 6D/2244098 is broad arrow marked and was manufactured in March 1985 and has never been issued. When purchased it came complete in its original packaging with attached documentation that confirmed it was checked by RAF stores in December 1997 and subsequently declared 'Serviceable' by 16 Maintenance Unit Stafford. This example is marked 'Small' and is fitted with an Amplivox 13100 microphone and mint communication cord and female plug. A full elastic harness is fitted, again in unissued condition, with snaps and clips to use with RAF C, D & E pattern flying helmets as well as the later G. The harness also features the reversible 'quick connect' loops for use with the later metal oxygen mask hooks. If the mask is required without the elastic webbing harness please contact us for a separate price. Despite now being nearly 33 years old this example is effectively as good as they come. Like all items offered on the site this is for sale as a collectable only, although subject to the correct checks we feel it is highly likely it is still in working condition but we can't guarantee this. These masks are no longer in production so grab the opportunity now to purchase one of the last examples whilst our very limited stocks remain. When they are gone they are gone.
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Wing Commander Roy Ralston, Officers Service Dress Cap - Another item I am letting go from my personal collection. Wing Commander Roy Rolston, DSO*, DFC, AFC, DFM, needs no introduction and was regarded as one of the most brilliant low-level bomber pilots of the Second World War. He survived 91 operational sorties including a remarkable run of 21 consecutive attacks on Berlin and his medal tally, detailed above, is a reflection on his skills in the air and his undoubted bravery. Ralston was always on the lookout for targets of opportunity and if for some reason he had not dropped his bombs over the designated target he would seek out alternatives on the home run. One such example was on Dec 8 1942, when he spotted a train entering a tunnel on the Paris-Soissons line. Racing in over the hedge tops, he lobbed a bomb into the mouth of the tunnel, circled and returned to finish the job by blocking the other end! Ralston's reputation grew as he tackled a wide variety of targets and on November 7 1942 he led six Mosquitos at wave top level to attack two large motor vessels entering the Gironde. They succeeded in scoring several hits with 5001b. bombs. The citation for the Bar to his DSO, mentioned a "high degree of skill, flying far into enemy territory in bad weather and frequently at 50 feet".
Joseph Roy George Ralston was born in Manchester and entered the RAF as a 15 year old apprentice in 1930 and trained as a Rigger but went on to pilot training and newly promoted Flight Sergeant Ralston joined No. 108 Squadron, which was equipped with the Bristol Blenheim. In the summer of 1940 he moved to 107 Squadron and was commissioned in 1941. In May 1942 he joined 105 flying the DH Mosquito. His exploits with the squadron were recognised with a DSO and Bar. After a period on training in the summer of 1944 he was posted to become Wing Commander Training with the Pathfinder Force. He ended the war in command of 139, a crack Pathfinder Mosquito squadron, which he took over in March, 1945. After the war Rolston applied for a permanent commission but his operational career had taken its toll, and at the medical he was told he had tuberculosis, which ended his flying career. He died aged 81 in 1996.
His visor cap, which is of classic WWII shape with a somewhat extended visor and carries his name, R.G.Ralston, hand written under the peak. It's provenance is it was purchased by a collector direct from Wing Commander Ralston in 1991. We then purchased it 20 years later, having been consigned to a top UK Military Auctioneers. When purchased the leather cap band was missing but we obtained a suitable replacement from another RAF visor cap which has now been stitched in place to bring it back to excellent display condition. The inner lining retains an original triangular makers label but all the details have now been worn away and is unreadable. The cap carries a fine Officers Kings crown badge whilst the patent leather chin strap shows some age related wear. The fabric is in outstanding original condition and has manged to avoid the attentions of the dreaded moth. The cap also came with a photograph, copied from Rolston's own collection in 1991 when he sold off much of his wartime memorabilia to collectors. The photo features a Mosquito of 139 Squadron with Ralston himself and five others including the Squadron CO Wing Commander 'Reggie' Reynolds.
An historic grouping of significant importance to an outstanding Pathfinder pilot who beat the odds to tell the tale!
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RAF H Type Oxygen Mask - First issued in early 1944 the H mask replaced the earlier G pattern and it remained in RAF service, with minor modifications, for the remainder of the 20th century. This example Stores Reference 6D/2244098 is broad arrow marked and was manufactured in March 1985 and has never been issued. When purchased it came complete in its original packaging with attached documentation that confirmed it was checked by RAF stores in December 1997 and subsequently declared 'Serviceable' by 16 Maintenance Unit Stafford. This example is marked 'Small' and is fitted with an Amplivox 13100 microphone and mint communication cord and female plug. A full elastic harness is fitted, again in unissued condition, with snaps and clips to use with RAF C, D & E pattern flying helmets as well as the later G. The harness also features the reversible 'quick connect' loops for use with the later metal oxygen mask hooks. If the mask is required without the elastic webbing harness please contact us for a separate price. Despite now being nearly 33 years old this example is effectively as good as they come. Like all items offered on the site this is for sale as a collectable only, although subject to the correct checks we feel it is highly likely it is still in working condition but we can't guarantee this. These masks are no longer in production so grab the opportunity now to purchase one of the last examples whilst our very limited stocks remain. When they are gone they are gone.
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