Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 118:
Description
This beautiful 20th Century diving helmet was made by John Date in Montreal, Canada. John Date was the only diving helmet manufacturer in Canada. Starting in the 1850’s John Date would go on to make some of the finest helmets ever made in North America. Today just about any example is prized for their quality and rarity.This specific example is a 3-light (windows) 12-bolt helmet. It does feature serial number 581 on the bonnet neck ring, breastplate neck ring, making it a serial #s matching example! This number puts the helmets manufacturer likely during the early 1950s.The helmet features a nice consistent patina to the copper body and brass hardware. The helmet still retains all four brails, twelve wing nuts, exhaust valve, original glass, port guards, glass, air and communications fittings, spring-loaded safety pin, internal air vents, and exhaust chin button. The communications elbow does have the original plug inside still. It does appear that long ago both elbow fittings on the bonnet received repair work to them. It’s not often we have the honor of handling a John Date helmet. This example has a fantastic visual appearance. John Date would make helmets on demand, meaning they only made a helmet when a diver or company specially ordered it. It should be noted that we have been unable to separate the bonnet and breastplate. The old neck ring gasket is still intact and likely expanded. We will have to ship this helmet as one piece. 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 on permanent file at Nations Attic and help ensure the provenance of the helmet and authenticity. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.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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