Snead Shallow Water Style 3 Cast Iron Diving Helmet 1930s

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Nation's Attic Diving Into History Auction Wi...

By Nation's Attic Inc.

Dec 9, 2023

Set Reminder 2023-12-09 11:00:00 2023-12-09 11:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Nation's Attic Diving Into History Auction Winter 2023 https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/nations-attic/nations-attic-diving-into-history-auction-winter-2023-14197
Nation's Attic annual Diving Into History auction 2023! This event is filled with high-quality, authentic vintage & antique diving helmets and related equipment. Some of the rarest historical diving in the world are selling in this auction at no reserve! Nation's Attic Inc. helmets@nationsattic.com

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• Lot Description

  One of the few companies other than Miller Dunn to make a commercially successful shallow water diving helmet was the EJ Willis Company. They were in New York and supplied a large assortment of equipment and helmets to the diving industry. Starting around 1933, EJ Willis had the Snead Company located in Jersey City, New Jersey, produce cast iron shallow water helmets for them. The helmets had the Snead Company name on them, therefore now commonly known as Snead helmets. The Snead Company’s primary business was the manufacturer of high-end architectural castings for use inside and out of buildings. All of their helmets are designed similarly and made of cast iron with a single window. The last model, Style 4, was made of bronze.
  
  This specific helmet is the 3rd style of helmet Willis would produce. Made of solid cast iron, the helmet weighs approximately 65 pounds. A large curved window on the front allows the diver a good field of vision. The design of the helmet is simplistic and allows for use by almost everyone. A simple air hose fitting located at the upper back of the helmet is the extent of its mechanical function. Once the user enters the water, the buoyancy allows the helmet to rest comfortably on the shoulders while excess air exits around the lower edges. If, in the event of an emergency, the user simply leans forward, allow the helmet to fall off and the diver then goes to the surface. A simple and effective design.
  
  The helmet exhibits a fantastic patina to the cast iron body. There are no cracks within the cast iron body. There are some casting imperfections on the surface, but nothing that is not as it was originally from the factory. The curved plastic window is present as well as the internal frame. Stainless steel screws secure the window and frame. The inside of the helmet shows some surface rust. Many people enjoy restoring these helmets as they are fairly simple to work on and test. This example has a great antique look to it and could easily be kept as is or painted.
  
  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. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.
  
  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 Info

  • 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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