Supermarine Spitfire Tail Wheel

Unlike many wheels offered for sale and listed as 'ex Spitfire' this one really is! It was discovered in south west England and the hub was somewhat corroded when purchased having apparently lain out in the open for many years. The technical team here at the Oldnautibits HQ have spent some time working on it and after some gentle cleaning and polishing it is now in very decent display condition. The design appeared to match the classic Spitfire wheel but we were pleased to discover, once the years of crud were removed, the all important drawing number AH 2184 embossed on both sides of the rim. It also has various other marks including Serial Nos F/72254 and near centre on the inner hub AHO 726. The tyre and inner tube are still fitted ; the tube even retains the original brass dust cover. The tyre is marked 3x4 and ZA5 as well as 'Eclectically Conducting'. Both tyre and hub show service and age wear but still in excellent display condition although it will never be airworthy again! Diameter is 10" (25 cm) so a very good display size compared with the Mosquito tail wheel we sold a while back! Sadly any provenance has been lost down the years but this remains an emotive item and guaranteed to be from a Spitfire -arguably the most famous aircraft in history. Rather more sensibly priced than the example that recently sold on e bay for in excess of £200 and £400!