Nation's Attic 2024 Diving Into History
Lot 133:
For your consideration is an impressive and seldom seen diving helmet made in France in the late 19th or early 20th century. The helmet features all the classic design elements of a Charles Petit creation, who made helmets in Paris France. While a Petit identification plate is not present, another intriguing ID plate is in its place.
The oval brass ID plate on the lower front of the breastplate reads:
Appareils Plongeurs Brevete S.G.D.G
DENAYROUSE
Centre De Recherches
Oceanographiques
DE
Monaco
Loosely translated, this is an inventory plate for the helmet that belonged to the Oceanographic Research Center Of Monaco. The research center was founded in 1910 with considerable support from Prince Albert I of Monaco. Today the museum and its oceanographic efforts are still strong, being housed in an incredible building rising from the cliffside rocks of Monaco overlooking the sea.
This helmet features an exhaust valve, acoustic telephone connection fitting, air fitting, three neck ring nuts, neck ring gasket, faceplate gasket, all the glass, internal air vents, exhaust button, and the unique Oceanographic ID plate. The faceplate threads off with ease, gasket no longer present. The three bolts at the neck ring thread on and off with ease, a very old neck ring gasket is present. The bonnet is free of any noticeable large dents but does have a beautifully patinaed surface. The internal air vents are present as well as the exhaust chin button. The helmet’s overall condition is impressive, especially when considering it was part of many underwater research missions for the institute long ago.
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. DHL Express is an option for international shipments under 600 pounds via air. 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. International bidders are advised that some countries do not allow the importation of knives. Nations Attic is not responsible for shipping charges going or coming back if your countries customs denies delivery. Rejected items can be consigned into a future sale as there are no refunds.
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