Luftwaffe LKp W101 Winter Flying Helmet

This model replaced the pre-war LKp W100 and whilst made to the same basic pattern it featured improved Siemens communications and better sound insulation. Instead of aluminium cups the earphones are housed in hard rubber cups covered with dark brown leather which had a more streamlined appearance and with an external recess at the top which helped secure the goggle straps in place. The avionics were also enhanced by the installation of a Perspex membranes inside the helmet between the cushioned fleece lining and the earphone speaker. The housing for the throat microphones on the LKp W101 was also improved with two straps containing the microphone linked by an inverted "T" at the nape of the helmet. This housing also served as the junction between the helmet's internal wiring and the long cord and plug-in connector. The throat straps were adjustable by means of two buckles, and once correctly adjusted could be joined together or removed at the front by means of a snap fastening.

On offer is a very fine and complete example of the type, that is in excellent original condition. The leather shell is unmarked and all stitching is intact and tight, with virtually no rubbing to the receiver housings covers as we normally see. It has provision for using with a 3 point oxygen mask with an adjustable brow strap fitted. The metal parts are all excellent with just very minor age related marks ; the goggle and chin straps are again crisp. Inside is equally clean and the lambswool lining is very clean with evidence of just very light use and well above the average. The earphones Perspex covers remain in place and are undamaged and embossed Ln 26602. The helmet is fully wired and carries a long wiring cord with a 4 pin plug fitted marked BLKvFL 27560 and the lozenge shaped throat microphones are marked Mi 4b and Ln 26779-2. To complete the helmet is a near mint manufacturers label a sewn in label confirming made by Siemens -Apparate, Maschinen G.m. b. H. Whilst this helmet is not dated the fact the manufacturers details are shown rather than a code indicates probably a pre-war example. It also features a good clear BAL ink stamp stands for Bauaufsichten der Luftwaffe, the air force procurement agency, the helmet pattern number Baumuster LKpW101 Great No 124-436A and and Z.Ln26618. The only part not readable on the label is the size stamp but the helmet is on the small size but ideal for display and would be hard to improve upon.