1880's British - FIREMAN SMOKE HELMET - SIEBE GORMAN & CO. - VERY RARE!

Description

You are bidding on a VERY RARE example of a 100% ORIGINAL 1880's British Fireman's Smoke Helmet!
Rumored to have been the inspiration for Darth Vader’s helmet. The Smoke Helmet was made in 1878 from Siebe Gorman & Co. Siebe Gorman (one of the most famous manufactures in diving equipment).  Worn to protect the user from smoke and gas, it would attach to a long hose that ran to an operated bellows.  The fireman could then be safely protected to enter buildings to carry out rescues or firefighting duties. The hose was his only air supply and lifeline.  Signals were given by tugs on the hose – 1 tug was for more air, 2 tugs less air and 3 was for help.
Made of brass, leather, and steel by Siebe Gorman and Co., this 199-'s British Fireman's Smoke Helmet is in EXCELLENT used condition!  Some marks and wear throughout, but it still retains MUCH of the original paint and finish!  The brass plate is still attached to the front, and indicates:
"Everything for Safety Everywhere.
SIEBE-GORMAN Co. Ltd.
Neptune works,
Chessington Surrey,
Manufacturer of
Mine and Industrial Safety Appliances"
Liner is still 100% intact, as is the original rubber hose (though a bit dry and cracked in areas).  No cracks or damage in the glass.  There is a tiny section of leather missing form the chin area (near the stitch), but it is not that noticeable and does not detract.   I have shown an example example in use in the last photo.  A SUPERB used example,
it would a
PERFECT item for any collection or display!
Please email me if you need additional photos or information.
------------------- PAYMENT -----------------
Payment should be made within 7 business days at the end of the auction unless buyer contacts me for other arrangements. I accept all forms of payment.
------------------- SHIPPING -----------------
My goal is to ship within 7 days from auction end. However, depending on circumstances, it may take up to an additional 1 week from receipt of confirmed payment. If you need it shipped sooner, please let me know and I will do our best to accommodate.
------------------- TERMS OF SALE -----------------
Most of my items are vintage, and as such are AS-IS, so you must therefore expect a degree of wear due to age and/or usage. I will describe each auction to the best of my knowledge and take as many photos necessary to ensure you are pleased upon receiving your item. All sales are final, so please make sure your questions are answered to your satisfaction before you purchase.
------------------- ABOUT ME -----------------
Although my passion is the Me109, I do offer many other German Aircraft (Fw190, Me262, etc.), as well as USAF and Japanese items. Occasionally I do offer many non-vintage items such as prints and art relating to the time period. As a private collector myself, I am constantly on the lookout for historical memorabilia, authentic photographs, artwork or anything unique relating to military aircraft.
------------------- COPYRIGHT -----------------
All pictures and descriptions used in my auctions under COPYRIGHT and I forbid the use of these photos and information in any manner such as paper or electronic (internet) publications or otherwise. Use is solely based on my authorization only.