Classic design and historical importance in diving are hallmarks of helmets made by Siebe Gorman. This 12 bolt 3 light design dating from 1880 to 1904 is just such an example. Siebe Gorman started making the first diving helmets in the 1830s in London England. The company would continue to invent innovative new designs and technology in diving. Their helmets would be used by the Royal Navy and her many colonies throughout the 19th and 20th Centuries.

As mentioned above, this helmet dates to the 1880 to 1904 time period. This is known by the type of stamp the company put into the front of the breastplate. The stamp states; Siebe . Gorman & Co. Patent. This was actually the 3rd style of stamped the company used. After this style, Siebe Gorman used a brass ID plate. It is a very same assumption to put a date on this helmet from the 19th Century.

The standard configuration for this model utilized oval windows on the side, and a round threaded window on the front. The 12 bolt pattern used 4 brails. The back of the bonnet features an air fitting with an adjustable and non-adjustable exhaust. The front window or port is missing the two studs which aid in its removal and tightening.

This helmet has certainly been part of adventures many years ago. The helmet is does have all its glass, 12 wing nuts, 4 brails, exhaust valves, air fitting, spitcock valve lever is missing, safety latch missing, window guards, neck ring gasket missing, and internal air vents are present. The air vents do appear to replacements. Numerous signs of use via the working dents on the bonnet give this helmet a look and feel that could never be obtained artificially.

From age and polishing of the bonnet long ago, the original method of construction can be seen clearly. The soldering seams at the top of the bonnet, down the back, and around the window guards can be clearly seen. Other sections where components were replaced also feature this type of copper soldering, sometimes referred to as castling.

Of important note, on the inside of both the breastplate and bonnet neck rings is the serial number 4025. This provides proof the top and bottom halves of the helmet are original to each other!

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.