Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 112:
Description
This helmet was made by one of the most famous and also elusive American helmet makers, Alfred Hale & Company. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, this company would start making diving helmets and related equipment in the 1830s. Alfred Hale was a direct competitor to the A.J. Morse & Son Company, also located in Boston. In many cases, Alfred Hale helmets are very similar to A.J. Morse helmets of the same time period. Regardless of the similarities, Alfred Hale helmets are much more difficult to find. Alfred Hale would produce a company catalog in 1917, by this time changing their name to the Alfred Hale Rubber Company. After this date is it unclear how much longer they stayed in business. In the 21st Century, Alfred Hale helmets are considered among collectors as some of the most desirable American made helmets of the 19th Century.As stated above, this incredible helmet was made in late 19th Century in Boston, MA. The helmet has a copper body with brass hardware, all of which is present. The helmet features the original stamped company details on the breastplate. During the 1800s helmet makers simply stamped their name and location on the breastplate, rather than a separate ID plate.The helmet is in very good preserved condition. The copper body and brass retain a nice patina, giving the helmet a consistent, rich appearance. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, four brails, two hose clamp thumb screws, air fitting, window guards, internal air vent at neck ring, and exhaust. The helmet exhibits typical small working dents on the top of the bonnet. There appears to have been a hole patched with copper on the top peak of the bonnet. There is one small spot on the lower front edge of the breastplate and two small spots on the lower edge of the back of the breastplate that have been professionally patched with copper as well. The breastplate does have some discoloration to the copper as well. These subtle signs of use from long ago, in our opinion, really make this helmet come alive!The Alfred Hale Co only advertised two different styles of helmets for sale. We have included for reference a photo out of their catalog showing both helmet styles, This one is referred to as, Receives Air In The Breast Plate model. This model represents a style of helmet favored by some during the 19th Century. The air fitting is located on the back of the breastplate. Air is received via a vent on the inside breastplate neck ring, which would blow below the diver’s chin. This configuration was a love it or hate it for divers, with a majority opting for the traditional method of air coming in via the bonnet.Alfred Hale helmets in any configuration are rare prizes for American helmet collectors. This example, with the exception of a few minor repairs, is a true diving history treasure. 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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