Nations Attic 2026 Diving Into History + More
Lot 121:
Description
This helmet is a seldom-seen example made by the Craftsweld Equipment Corporation in New York, NY. Craftsweld purchased the diving equipment assets of the A. Schrader’s Son company in the early 1950s. The result are helmets that are very similar in design to earlier A. Schrader’s Son models.Craftsweld would make individual helmets on order, never having government contracts. With only a limited number of helmets being made each year starting in the early 1950s, surviving examples from this company are scarce.This interesting and almost like new example holds a few mysteries. The helmet is an authentic example made by Craftsweld. The breastplate features a cast brass ID plate that stays Craftsweld Equipment Corp. New York, NY. There is no serial number stamped on the ID plate. On the back of the helmet, the safety pin lock tab does have 11 stamped on it. It’s possible this is the last two digits of the serial number. We were unable to find anymore numbers stamped on the helmet anywhere. Based on information supplied by the A. Schrader’s Son company, Craftsweld helmet #1611 made during 1952 could be this one, but we cannot be 100% sure. Based on the helmet nearly new condition, this helmet was likely used for a single project and then put away and nicely preserved, as shown here. The copper body and brass hardware are in fantastic condition. The helmet retains its original four brails, twelve wing nuts, port guards, glass, exhaust, air fitting with Schrader USA stamped non-return valve, Craftsweld stamped comms fitting and cup, internal air vents, and exhaust chin button. This helmet also features stainless steel breastplate bolts and port guard screws, something Craftsweld did on occasion. The old neck ring gasket is present. The original tinning on the copper body is nearly totally intact. With a light cleaning or hand polishing the white reside on the tinning could be removed, reveling the impressive original gray/silver surface. Perhaps with some additional detective work, this helmets history can be uncovered, adding more history to this already fantastic diving piece!The display stand in the photos is not included. The option to purchase the stand at a discounted price will be available after the auction. 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.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. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
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