This helmet was made the Craftsweld Equipment Corporation. This company purchased the A. Schrader’s Son Company in 1952. Located in Long Island City, New York, this company would make diving helmets and related equipment from 1952 to 1999. Many collectors consider these Craftsweld helmets a Schrader. Regardless, helmets made by Craftsweld are relatively scarce and seldom come on the market.

We do not have access to Craftsweld serial number records, so dating this specific helmet is difficult. Early Craftsweld helmets did feature standard hardware such as breastplate studs and lashing eyes, which this one has. It is a safe educated guess that this helmet was made during the first half of their production run.

The standard configuration of a helmet during this time had 3 lights or windows and communications. The helmet is in very nice condition original condition and does come with a whip and air supply valve. The copper body and brass hardware are untouched and have developed a fantastic patina over the decades. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, four brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, communications fitting, internal reproducer (speaker) safety pin, window guards, neck ring gasket and internal air vents.

At the top of the bonnet is a vintage Dockbuilders NY / NJ union sticker. It’s quite rare for a helmet to retain a clue as to where and how it was used. The decal could be removed if so desired. Overall the helmet does have a fantastic original appearance, especially with its original air hose and air control value still attached. This helmet is a great example of one of the last copper & brass hardhats to be used before the advent of fiberglass models.

All helmets sold & auctioned by Nation’s Attic Inc. will come with a certificate of authenticity (COA). This COA will have a serial # on it that will match the # on a tamperproof holographic decal placed on the inside of the helmet. This level of security and long term assurance of the helmets authenticity is un-matched in the industry and very important to us.

The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided. All helmets will be shipped in two double boxed boxes via FedEx. Worldwide shipping available. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.