448 S. Pattie Ave
Wichita, KS 67211
United States
Nation’s Attic Incorporated is located in Wichita, KS. As a full time business we offer expert factory correct restoration & repair services for antique slot machines made from the 1880’s to 1950. Only dealing in authentic examples of antique slot machines, we are one of the few remaining full time ...Read more
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Dec 4, 2021
This is a fairly unusual and interesting antique diving helmet made in the Republic of Chile. While we cannot place a firm date of manufacturer on this helmet, early to mid-20th Century is a good estimate.
The helmet has no manufacturing stamps or Id plate. The style of the helmet and its construction help determine where it was made. The 3-window style of the bonnet and breastplate style are hallmarks of helmets made in Chile. In addition, the bonnet is constructed of multiple pieces of copper that have been welded together in a style called castling or castellation. This pattern is visible on the top of the bonnet. This construction style was used in the United States until the early 1900s.
This helmet certainly did see use originally. A wonderful patina has developed on the copper body and brass hardware. As to be expected, there are numerous working dents on the top bonnet. Each half does thread together with ease. The rubber neck ring gasket is gone. It does appear the brails are vintage replacements. The air vents and exhaust button inside the bonnet are present. The air fitting and exhaust on the back of the bonnet remain. Glass is all intact with scratches evident. The two knobs on the front faceplate are gone.
This helmet was owned by the Divers Academy International school. It was purchased in a charity event years ago. The prior owner was diver Jim Crandell of New Jersey. His name is written in black on the inside of the breastplate. Surviving Chilean diving helmets do not turn up often. The helmets provenance will be recorded on its certificate of authenticity.
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.
Shipping: Shipping fees listed with each lot pertain to domestic shipping only (contiguous or lower 48). International bidders are subject to higher shipping fees. Please inquire about shipping to a particular country before the start of the auction. Purchased items will be shipped on a first paid, first shipped basis and may take up to twenty (20) business days for said shipment to leave our (Nations Attic, Inc.) business. For time sensitive shipments, we (Nations Attic, Inc.) will expedite payment processing and shipping for a nominal fee. Items paid for by personal check are subject to a ten (10) business day hold for funds clearance. All domestic mainland items are shipped via FedEx ground or via USPS unless otherwise specified or requested by the customer. International shipments are shipped via USPS International or FedEx.
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