Nation's Attic Diving Into History Auction 2025 + More
Lot 90:
Description
Did you know that Jon Lindbergh, son of the famed aviator Charles Lindbergh, was also a pioneer in deep-sea diving? In the mid-1960s, alongside Pat Hammar, he co-designed an advanced mixed-gas diving helmet. This creation, renowned as one of the most visually distinctive and mechanically unique helmets ever produced, aimed to significantly extend the depths at which divers could safely operate.
The design process for the Lindbergh-Hammar helmet began with a standard Japanese model as a base. Lindbergh and Hammar then modified it, incorporating the necessary features to create a functional helium recirculatory system. This resulted in an impressive final design, distinguished by a large canister integrated into the rear of the bonnet.
It’s speculated that Lindbergh and Hammar collaborated on this helmet with the goal of securing a government contract. Jon Lindbergh’s influential name, combined with his recognized expertise in advancing deep-sea working capabilities, would have significantly bolstered such an effort.
While clearly utilized, this example is exceptionally well-preserved and retains its original configuration. A few minor imperfections on the bonnet attest to its history but are superficial. Crucially, the helmet features its full complement of specialized components: communications block and cup, rear canister, ScubaPro regulator, gas control valve, air control valve, Plexiglas ports, original brails, wing nuts, neck ring gasket, internal air vents, exhaust chin button, threaded safety bolt, and WWII BTE exhaust valve.
A key characteristic of known Lindberg & Hammar helmets is the absence of their own branding, further evidenced by the removal of original breastplate ID plates. The helmet’s style, coupled with the telltale outline of an oval ID plate, strongly indicates an origin with TOA in Japan. While some examples are stamped with a serial number, this one remains unnumbered.
Jon Lindbergh’s life was marked by significant historical involvement. Although his venture into helium diving helmet design was short-lived, the handful of remaining examples serve as enduring reminders of his profound accomplishments and contributions to extreme depth diving.
With an estimated production of fewer than five units, and even fewer surviving to the present day, the Lindberg / Hammar helmet was ultimately overshadowed by competition from R. Kirby, Yokohama, and later DESCO. As a result, this singular piece of helium diving technology became a true rarity, now deserving of prominence in any leading collection or museum globally.
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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