Nation's Attic Diving Into History Auction 2025 + More
Lot 126:
Description
In addition to the popular six-bolt pattern helmets, Siebe Gorman also produced in lesser numbers a twelve-bolt pattern helmet. Siebe Gorman started making the first diving helmets in the 1830s in London, England. The company would continue to invent innovative new designs and technology in diving. Their helmets would be used by the Royal Navy and its many colonies throughout the 19th and 20th Centuries. The Admiralty Pattern was the Royal Navy’s primary deep water helmet in the 20th Century.
This impressive helmet is a style, as mentioned above, that utilizes a twelve bolt pattern on the breastplate. The helmet features the original Siebe Gorman brass ID plate. Siebe Gorman would stamp serial numbers into inside neck ring of the bonnet & breastplate. The serial #9967 is stamped on both locations, dating this helmet to 1922. The style of the ID plate also confirms the date of this helmet to 1922 as well.
The standard configuration for this model utilized oval windows on the side and a round threaded window on the front. The 12-bolt pattern requires 4 brails rather than the type found on 6 bolt helmets. The back of the bonnet features an air fitting that has at some point been reinforced.
The helmet is in very good condition, perfect for display in the home or office. The copper body and brass hardware exhibit a wonderful consistent patina with evidence of a polish decades ago. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, 4 brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, spitcock valve, and window guards. The dumbbell safety latch and internal air vents are missing.
This helmet effectively showcases the method of construction on the top of the bonnet. Referred to as “castling”, the method of soldering multiple pieces of copper together to form the bonnet can clearly be seen. The bonnet does exhibit typical small working dents indicative of a helmet that was used but well taken care of.
The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.
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. DHL express is an option for international shipments under 600 pounds via air. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.
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