Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 84:
Description
This helmet was made by one of the famed and iconic manufacturers of the 19th and 20th Centuries, the A. Schrader’s Son Company. Located in Brooklyn, New York, this company started making diving helmets and related equipment in the 1840s. Throughout the 19th Century, they would improve upon diving helmet design and become a supplier to the US Navy. During the early 20th Century their helmets would utilize the latest techniques in design and safety. In addition to supplying the US Navy, Schrader helmets and equipment were used by commercial divers around the world. Schrader would go on to be a major supplier of the famed Mark V from 1916 till after World War II. Today, helmets made by this company are prized among collectors for their iconic styles and place in diving history.Dating to the late 1920s at the onset of the Great Depression, this A. Schrader’s Son Inc. diving helmet is a remarkable artifact of American industrial history. It features a classic copper body with all original brass hardware intact and present. A standout feature is the original manufacturer’s ID plate, which remains clearly stamped with a serial number that—combined with the helmet’s specific style—allows for accurate dating to this pivotal era. During a time of immense economic hardship, commercial diving was a high-stakes, essential profession for those braving the depths to build the nation’s infrastructure. This helmet serves as a quintessential example of the rugged, dependable gear used on the historic underwater projects that helped shape the country.This helmet is the classic standard configuration that Schrader offered in their catalog at this time. That configuration consists of three windows or ports and twelve bolts on the breastplate. This helmet is a no-nonsense example of what an old school diver would have preferred at the time. The helmet is in very nice condition original condition. The copper body and brass hardware feature an old patina that is consistent. The helmet is complete with all its glass (faceplate glass cracked but solid), 12 wing nuts, four brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, safety pin with chain, window guards, non-return valve, and internal air vents. The old neck ring gasket is long gone. Also, while it is hard to believe, all twelve wing nuts are contemporary, but factory correct. The top of the bonnet features typical working dents. The very top center has one larger dent, but it is not visually distracting. This classic Brooklyn, New York, helmet has remained original for nearly one hundred years. It will make a wonderful helmet by itself or as part of a collection. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided. All diving helmets in this auction will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Nations Attic. The certificate will have a unique number that will match the number on a tamperproof hologram decal placed inside the helmet. This information will be kept in a permanent file at Nations Attic and help ensure the provenance of the helmet and authenticity.All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping is available; however, no ocean freight will be offered on large items. Payment via bank wire for customers outside the USA is required. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
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