John Date was established in 1853 in Montreal Canada. Mr. Date was a master coppersmith and brass founder, among other skills. It is unknown when his first helmet was made, but it was likely, based on his skills, in the mid to late 1850s. John Date would go on to make some of the finest helmets ever made in North America. In addition to helmets, the company would make and sell other diving equipment. One such piece of equipment is the scarce submarine hand lantern.

This submarine hand lantern or underwater light was featured in the companies 1929 catalog. It is described as having a 200 watt incandescent lamp and operating on 110 volts. It could be carried by hand or suspended from the surface via rope. Originally the lamp was supplied with 125 feet of special heavy rubber covered cable.

This submarine hand lantern features a bold and impressive John Date Manufacturers Montreal Canada ID plate cast into the top light housing. Made of solid brass, the light features six brass rods surrounding a heavy glass cylinder. The cylinder does have a few cracks and a hole. Luckily, the glass cylinder is still solid. Overall, the light measures approximately 27 inches tall and weighs 17 pounds. What an amazing piece of Canadian diving history!

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.