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
Two ways to bid:
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$20,000 | $2,500 |
Jul 16, 2022
For your consideration is a beautiful original and early TOA Diving Equipment Company diving helmet. This helmet is in the classic configuration of 3 lights (windows) and 12 bolts. A fantastic patina has formed on this helmet over the decades after it was last used long ago. All the original hardware, glass, gaskets, and air vents are still intact. The only missing component is a threaded safety bolt on the bonnet.
This helmet is a relatively early example. The bonnet was hand formed and features the castellation welding technique, a time consuming process that was replaced by the spun copper process. A teardrop style spitcock handle used on earlier helmet is present on the bonnet as well. The brass ID plate is in Japanese and says TOKYO MINAMISENJI, TOA, DIVING EQUIPMENT COMPANY. During World War 2 the company name added Ltd to the end.
Overall the helmet is in wonderful used condition. The bonnet and breastplate thread together with ease. Typical working dents on the bonnet are present and, in our opinion, add to this helmets character. The spitcock handle is currently stuck in the up position. A communications device is present on the back of the breastplate, which is not seen often on these.
While encountering a well used Japanese helmet is not uncommon, finding one of this quality and age is special!
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. 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.
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 DHL Express or FedEx Express. USPS is no longer used for international shipments due to issues with tracking packages. Insurance: All items are insured for the full purchase amount less carrier shipping charges, or the maximum amount allowed by the carrier and/or country of destination. Insurance is included in the specified shipping amount listed in the shipping section of the final invoice pricing. All invoices are sent with insurance already factored into the shipping charge. The customer has the right to waive any insurance amount by providing written consent that the customer will not hold Nations Attic, Inc. or its shipping carriers responsible for damaged and/or lost shipments due to uninsured/under insured packages. In some instances, we (Nations Attic, Inc.) reserve the right to only ship certain items if insurance is purchased for the full amount of the item(s) being shipped. International buyers are responsible for all duties and taxes. If shipment is rejected, buyer is responsible for all return shipping costs or disposal fees incurred.
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