Classic design and historical importance in diving are hallmarks of helmets made by Siebe Gorman. This relatively scarce 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 and exhaust. The front window or port threads on & off. The helmet has a classic design element found in many period illustrations of divers.

The helmet is in good original condition with an impressive patina. The copper body and brass hardware have a dark color with hints of green, producing an unmistakable look of a helmet that has been part of many adventures many years ago. The helmet is complete with all its glass, 12 wing nuts, 4 brails, exhaust valve, air fitting, spitcock valve, dumbbell safety latch, window guards, neck ring gasket, and internal air vents. The back of the bonnet does exhibit the signs of a repair on the air fitting many many decades ago. Numerous signs of use via the working dents on the bonnet and breastplate give this helmet a look and feel that could never be obtained artificially.

When collecting antique diving helmets a major factor to consider is the overall appearance. If you enjoy helmets or antiques in general with authentic use that retain their original appearance, this helmet should then seriously be considered. Even from a distance, this 100+-year-old piece of diving history radiates an aura of mystique combined with hard work and underwater adventure!

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.