Nation's Attic 2024 Diving Into History
Lot 143:
We are proud to present this very rare and original John Date divers air pump or compressor. While John Date diving helmets are extremely difficult to find in the 21st century, a dive pump like this is virtually unheard of surfacing on the market.
John Date was the only manufacturer of diving helmets Canada had during the 19th and most of the 20th centuries. Located in Montreal Canada, John Date helmets initially followed the style of Siebe Gorman, but then evolved into their own style of construction and appearance.
This pump was likely made in the early 20th century. In the 1929 John Date catalog they only offered this model of pump, which is a triple cylinder designed for a single diver for depths up to 17 fathoms. The pump features a pine case with steel corners and trim parts, two cast iron flywheels, wood flywheel handles that turn on a steel shaft, and four special carrying handles that rotate into horizontal position making moving the pump easier in some situations.
The pump amazingly appears to be in its original condition. The green-painted pine case is solid, with minimal paint loss to the edges. The top lid does have a crack but is solid. The red painted trim is all present. The original and impressive John Date plaque is intact along with a No 2 plaque. This number 2 may be an inventory number. A cast Air cover is at the bottom center on the front. All four carry handles are intact and rotate easily on their bolts. The cast iron wheels are in good condition, along with the wood handles. One of the wheels rests at an angle when installed on the shaft. The pump does move with ease when the wheels are installed. The top lid opens easily with the original hinges intact. Other than dust, the pump mechanism is in excellent condition.
If you have a John Date diving helmet, this pump would be the ultimate accompaniment to it! This pump weighs over 500 pounds. It can be picked up at Nation’s Attic facility in Wichita, KS, or shipped via freight line.
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.
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