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Luftwaffe Nitsche & Gunther Pattern 'Splinter' Goggles - This model, designated 'Flieger-Splitterschutzbrille', was developed by Dr. Knothe, of the optical firm Nitsche & Gunther and were favoured by Luftwaffe fighter pilots in WWII. Allocated stores refrence nos Fl. Nr30550 these represent the later 3rd pattern, offered in varients 'A' & 'D' and entered service in 1944. The pattern features a moulded black plastic frame, with a hinge arrangement over the nose. They are fitted with slightly tinted convex lenses, that were designed to provide protection from flying splinters and shrapnel, without too much curvature to distort vision.
Original examples of this pattern are now very hard to find and expensive, with good examples retailing at well over the £1,000+ level. Many of the replicas that do appear on the market from time to time originated in the Czech Republic although we are told by our contacts in that country the firm that made them is no longer in business and production has ceased. This may explain why even reproductions are now very scarce. We have no idea of the origins of this set but they have been decently executed but not to the exacting build quality of the original. The hinged frames are in excellent condition and on reverse they are indistinctly marked "NiGuRa", the branding used by the original manufacturers Nitsche and Gunther, Rathenow. This model was issued with clear and tinted lenses (designated 'A' & 'D') and it is our view the tinted variant, as this set, displays well, particularly in conjunction with the 'Netzkopfhaube' flying helmet, shown here with an approriate Luftwaffe winter flying jacket, are for display purposes and this sale is for the goggles alone. The pattern features large ventilation slots around the frame to avoid the lenses steaming up in use and the set is completed with a beige elastic back strap with a metal adjuster.
These goggles, despite being replicas, have none the less become a collector's item in themselves and are getting increasingly hard to find. These represent and an ideal stop gap for a serious collector, for a reenactor or film company which needs authenticity without risking using an original and for a fraction of the price of the real thing. We were advised the last of the Czech production was being offered back in 2012 was priced then at EU 500 so grab a bargain whilst you can!
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Luftwaffe LKpW101 Winter flying Helmet - A classic example of the standard pattern, which was introduced into service in 1938 and then served throughout WWII. The brown goatskin leather shell is in excellent condition and remains supple with all it's original finish intact and the goggle retaining straps are in perfect condition. This pattern features the characteristic double chin straps ; the metal buckles and 3- point oxygen mask clips show none of the normal tarnishing or rust and are therefore likely to be the nickel-plated examples. The avionics are complete and the helmet is fitted with the early round Mi4C throat microphones coded bxo, an indication this helmet is from an early production. This seems to be confirmed by the woven fabric label that states the makers name Deutsche Telephonwerke und Kabelindustrie AG who were based in Berlin. The factory manufacturers code was allocated as bxo, but clearly this fairly early war label was made before the coding system was introduced, so an added bonus.
Inside is equally clean and is fitted with a lamb's wool interior lining, which shows signs of very light service use, commensurate with its age. The label also carries a clear BAL inspectors stamp as well as the size detail which is 58. A final detail on the label is the date is marked as April 1941, thus confirming our speculation this is an early wartime manufactured helmet. Another bonus is both the Perspex receiver sound plates remain in situ. These are often missing or damaged on these helmets; both of these are stamped with the code Ln26602. The helmet is of course fully wired and is fitted with a long communication cord and four-pole break coupling that is marked BLKvFL27560.
In summary a super example of an increasingly scarce pattern and more so in this condition. We rate this one as a 9.5 out of 10 that ticks all the boxes and matches the collector's maxim of always buy the best example you can afford. We have not had one of these in for some times and we had to pay a serious price to acquire it, but believe it still represents good value for money and we don't anticipate It will be with us long!
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Luftwaffe M-43 Einheitsfliegermütze Other Ranks Flight Cap - The Luftwaffe M-43 field cap was introduced for wear by all ranks on 27th September 1943 as a replacement cap for all other field caps then in use. The standard issue M-43 was constructed of Luftwaffe blue-grey wool with a rayon lining.
On offer is a very fine late war single button specification example that has avoided the attentions of the dreaded moth. The interior lining is very clean and is nicely ink stamped 56 (size) followed by 1944 and below RB Nr. 0/0375/0025. The Reichsbetriebsnummer (or RB number) is a 9 digit code introduced on 25.06.43 The prefix 0 indicates Industry and second group of four numbers represents a district code that identifies the geographic location of the company, we believe in this case Saxony. The third and last group of four is the Company code, which we have not as yet identified, so any help on this would be appreciated.
The cap carries a fine one piece Luftwaffe insignia with woven cockade below and the peak retains an excellent shape. September 1943 instructions stated if the peak got in the way when operating machinery the wearer was allowed to reverse the peak and wear back to front in the modern manner of today although we have yet to find a period photograph to prove the point! Not much else we can add other than this example meets the collectors maxim 'always buy the best example you can afford'. But don't just take our word for it and as with all our stock more detailed photographs are available by return. When new these caps were charged at 3.19 Reichmarks ;ours is now a little more but this pattern is becoming increasingly hard to find and more so in this conditionon and should prove a good investment and an excellent addition to the collection.
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Luftwaffe LKp S101 Summer Flying Helmet - This model was introduced in 1938, and replaced the 1936 specification LKpS100 and whilst made to the same basic pattern it featured improved Siemens communications and better sound insulation. Instead of aluminium earphones housings of the earlier helmets this features hard rubber cups covered with dark brown leather which had a more streamlined appearance and with an external recess at the top which helped secure the goggle straps in place. The avionics were also enhanced by the installation of a Perspex membranes inside and padded with fleece lined cushions around the earphone speaker. The housing for the throat microphones on the LKp S101 was also improved with two straps containing the microphone linked by an inverted "T" at the nape of the helmet. This also served as the junction between the helmet's internal wiring and the long cord and plug-in connector. The throat straps were adjustable by means of two buckles, and once correctly adjusted could be joined together or removed at the front by means of a snap fastening.
On offer is a good issued example of the type and whilst it displays evidence of quite hard service life it is complete and despite minor issues displays very well. The 'salt and pepper' cotton weave fabric shell shows signs of in service use, particulary on the outside brow and a very tiny tear to the front right section but this does not detract on isplay. The leather parts are good although the left chin strap buckle has been damaged at some stage and has been neatly sewn back on. The helmet has provision for use with a a 3 point oxygen mask with an adjustable brow strap fitted; the metal parts show slight age wear. The goggle straps are all fine and functional and fitted with Prym snaps; the characteristic double chin straps are both excellent.
Inside the helmet the earphones Perspex covers remain in place, and embossed Ln 26602 and are in excellent condition. It is fully wired and carries a 1 metre long wiring lead with a 4 pin plug fitted marked BLKvFL 27968 and unusually one side has been painted green to ensure it is quickly connected to the female coupling on a 'right first time' basis. The helmet is fitted with the early pattern round Mi4a & FL26779-1 magnetic throat microphones. The lining is made from olive satin with lambswool around the receivers, for added comfort. The lining shows evidence of very light service wear and remains in exceptional condition. Sewn in are two woven set of labels; identical examples are shown in Mick Prodger's 'Luftwaffe V RAF' reference book page 25 centre top and described as 'labels from an early helmet'. The top label is named to Siemens and marked below Baumuster LKp S 101 and Ln. Nr 26617 ; below is a clear red BAL inspectors stamp. A secondary manufacturers oblong label is also attached reading STRIEGEL & WAGNER KOM.GES. LICHTENFELS/BAYER.OSTMARK Grosse : 55, indicating a small size. This is almost certainly a pre war manufactured example that could well have served through the Battle of Britain although its history has been lost down the years. This pattern is becoming increasingly hard to find and is priced to reflect its overall condition. Despite the issues mentioned it would provide a very decent example of the type in any Luftwaffe or flying helmet collection.
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Luftwaffe K-33 winter Flying Helmet - This was the standard WWII unwired helmet for use by aircrew for primary training as well as for combat crew positions where no communication was necessary. These were also used by single engine fighter pilots early on during the Blitzkrieg in 1939/40. It is interesting by mid war virtually all crew positions required radio contact yet it is documented it remained in manufacture certainly until 1943, with later examples carrying the provision for attaching two and three point oxygen mask.
This helmet is of the latter type with two metal clips either side of the helmet and an adjustable brow attachment, as used on the LKpS101 and LKpW101 wired helmets. The leather is in really excellent condition with no issues and both the goggle snaps are in place and working. The double chin straps are good with service grub to the inside linings and the metal parts remain bright The woven makers label indicates it was made by STRIEGEL & WAGNER KOM.GES. LICHTENFELS/BAYER.OSTMAR and Grosse but the size detail is worn out but we would estimate a medium fit. Perhaps not the most sexy of the wartime Luftwaffe flying helmets but no collection would be complete without this model and it would be hard to improve on this example
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Luftwaffe FK 34 Summer Flying Helmet - Luftwaffe K 34 Flying Helmet - This pattern was constructed from the same pattern as the LKp S100 and made without any provision for communications and used in crews positions where radio equipment was not required or by those in training. This is the summer variant of the helmet, finished in 'salt and pepper' fabric whilst an identical pattern, designated K33, was offered with a brown leather shell and fleece linings for winter use. A further variant was made in grey leather for use by Me262 jet pilots This pattern was manufactured at least until 1943 and is a later example, having additional metal studs and brow hook fitted to enable 3-strap oxygen masks to be used.
This helmet remains in really excellent original condition with no damage or staining to the cloth shell or green rayon lining. It carries an unusual cotton manufacturers label confirming it was made by G.A.Hoffman Berlin S.W.29 followed by a weak stamp indicating 37 that could be the date of manufacture It is further stamped 55 although if the size it certainly fits closer to a 60. The double leather chin and rear goggle straps are all very crisp and we can't find any issues at all to mention, and the metal parts are like new. What makes this example stand out from the crowd is instead of having and adjustable brow strap (as per the FK 33 we have also just listed) this helmet has a strap and snap arrangement. This is a first for us but if you own a copy of Mick Prodger 'Vintage Fling Helmets' check out page 232. At the bottom he details an FK34 to an identical specification and writes:' 1937 dated FK34 Fling helmet with snap down leather strap on the crown instead of the adjustable forehead strap. It is believed this crown strap was an early oxygen mask attachment point which was also incorporated into the Italians and Japanese copies of Luftwaffe helmets'. It therefore appears this is a very early and rather scarce variant of the more commonly found type of FK 34 and very unusual and desirable example to add to a Luftwaffe helmet collection. In addition the overall condition certainly matches the old collectors criteria of 'always buy the best example you can afford'! Grab it whilst you can.
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Luftwaffe LKp W101 Winter Flying Helmet - This model replaced the pre-war LKp W100 and whilst made to the same basic pattern it featured improved Siemens communications and better sound insulation. Instead of aluminium cups the earphones are housed in hard rubber cups covered with dark brown leather which had a more streamlined appearance and with an external recess at the top which helped secure the goggle straps in place. The avionics were also enhanced by the installation of a Perspex membranes inside the helmet between the cushioned fleece lining and the earphone speaker. The housing for the throat microphones on the LKp W101 was also improved with two straps containing the microphone linked by an inverted "T" at the nape of the helmet. This housing also served as the junction between the helmet's internal wiring and the long cord and plug-in connector. The throat straps were adjustable by means of two buckles, and once correctly adjusted could be joined together or removed at the front by means of a snap fastening.
On offer is a very fine and complete example of the type, that is in excellent original condition. The leather shell is unmarked and all stitching is intact and tight, with virtually no rubbing to the receiver housings covers as we normally see. It has provision for using with a 3 point oxygen mask with an adjustable brow strap fitted. The metal parts are all excellent with just very minor age related marks ; the goggle and chin straps are again crisp. Inside is equally clean and the lambswool lining is very clean with evidence of just very light use and well above the average. The earphones Perspex covers remain in place and are undamaged and embossed Ln 26602. The helmet is fully wired and carries a long wiring cord with a 4 pin plug fitted marked BLKvFL 27560 and the lozenge shaped throat microphones are marked Mi 4b and Ln 26779-2. To complete the helmet is a near mint manufacturers label a sewn in label confirming made by Siemens -Apparate, Maschinen G.m. b. H. Whilst this helmet is not dated the fact the manufacturers details are shown rather than a code indicates probably a pre-war example. It also features a good clear BAL ink stamp stands for Bauaufsichten der Luftwaffe, the air force procurement agency, the helmet pattern number Baumuster LKpW101 Great No 124-436A and and Z.Ln26618. The only part not readable on the label is the size stamp but the helmet is on the small size but ideal for display and would be hard to improve upon.
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Luftwaffe LKp S101 Summer Flying Helmet - This model was introduced in 1938, and replaced the 1936 specification LKp S100 and whilst made to the same basic pattern it featured improved Siemens communications and better sound insulation. Instead of aluminium earphones housings of the earlier helmets this features hard rubber cups covered with dark brown leather which had a more streamlined appearance and with an external recess at the top which helped secure the goggle straps in place. The avionics were also enhanced by the installation of a Perspex membranes inside and padded with fleece lined cushions around the earphone speaker. The housing for the throat microphones on the LKp S101 was also improved with two straps containing the microphone linked by an inverted "T" at the nape of the helmet. This also served as the junction between the helmet's internal wiring and the long cord and plug-in connector. The throat straps were adjustable by means of two buckles, and once correctly adjusted could be joined together or removed at the front by means of a snap fastening.
On offer is an excellent example of the type and way above the condition these helmets are normally found in. The 'salt and pepper' cotton weave fabric shell is excellent with just one very small hole to the crown and no staining. The leather parts are all good with minimal evidence of light service use. The helmet has provision for using with a 3 point oxygen mask with an adjustable brow strap fitted; the metal parts show slight age wear. The goggle straps are all fine and functional and fitted with Prym snaps; the characteristic double chin straps are way above the average.
Inside the helmet the earphones Perspex covers are in place, exhibiting minor age wear and embossed Ln 26602. The helmet is fully wired and carries a 1 metre long wiring lead with a 4 pin plug fitted marked BLKvFL 27560 and the lozenge shaped magnetic throat microphones are marked Mi 4b ln26799-2. The lining is made from olive satin with lambswool around the receivers, for added comfort. The lining shows evidence of light service wear but is again well above the average. Sewn in are two woven set of labels; identical examples are shown in Mick Prodger's 'Luftwaffe V RAF' reference book page 25 centre top and described as 'labels from an early helmet'. The top label is named to Siemens and marked below Baumuster LKp S 101 and Ln. Nr 26617 ; below is a very feint ink date stamp and whilst rather faded we believe indicates a manufacturing date of June 1939 so a pre Battle of Britain example that certainly adds to the interest! A secondary manufacturers oblong label is also attached reading STRIEGEL & WAGNER KOM.GES. LICHTENFELS/BAYER.OSTMARK Grosse : 59, indicating size.
Like the other Luftwaffe kit we have recently listed this helmet ticks all the boxes and it would be very hard to find a better original example and these are becoming increasingly scarce and more so in this condition. This example would display perfectly with the 1936 Sommerfliegerkombi which we have also just listed.
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Luftwaffe K 34 Flying Helmet - This pattern was constructed from the same pattern as the LKp S100 and made without any provision for communications and used in crews positions where radio equipment was not required or by those in training. This is the summer variant of the helmet, finished in 'salt and pepper' fabric whilst an identical pattern, designated K33, was offered with a brown leather shell and fleece linings for winter use. A further variant was made in grey leather for use by Me262 jet pilots This pattern was manufactured at least until 1943 and is a later example, having additional metal studs and brow hook fitted to enable 3-strap oxygen masks to be used.
This helmet remains in really excellent original condition with no damage or staining to the cloth shell or rayon lining. It carries a quality woven manufacturers label confirming it was made by B.Rawe & co of RHEDA (Westf), a textile company founded in 1896 and still in business today. The double leather chin and rear goggle straps are all very crisp and we can't find any issues at all to mention, other than very light service wear. Like the M-43 cap we have also listed today this helmet again matches the collectors criteria 'buy the best example you can afford'. Perhaps not the most sexy of the Luftwaffe wartime flying helmets but one that is often overlooked and is missing from many collections so grab this opportunity whilst you can!
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Luftwaffe LKpN 101 Netzkopfhaube Flying Helmet - This pattern is known as the net or mesh flying helmet and is normally associated with German fighter pilots in WWII. Whilst its date of introduction to service remains hazy photographs exist of it in use during the Battle of Britain so it was certainly in service in 1940, if not before. Designed to be lightweight and cool in wear it was manufactured without a chin strap, with the oxygen mask utilised to secure in place. Two main versions of this helmet were produced and it is believed the earlier variant had provision for a two point oxygen mask but with a slightly different and possibly later pattern that had provision for a three point mask; confusingly but both carried the same nomenclature LKpN 101.
Our example is the two point version and finished in dark brown netting and matching leather trim. The mesh is a potentially weak point on this pattern but on this one it is in exceptional condition, with no issues to mention. The communication 'T' carrier is also a potential weak spot but again this one is excellent. The rear goggle straps are in place, fitted with Prym snaps. This is a fully wired helmet with the less usual long communication cord fitted with a 4 point plug marked Ln27868. This is unusual as it has been customised with yellow paint, we assume to aid the wearer to connect to the female side the correct way around. Two Siemens-Halske electro-magnetic throat microphones marked Mi 4b Ln 26779-2 are attached to a leather and chamois lined neck strap, secured with one press-stud fastener.
Inside all is as it should be. The earphone cups contain the original Perspex covers stamped Ln 26602 and unusually are in undamaged original condition. These are surrounded by a fleece lining that shows evidence of very light service wear. The central suede bar carries a fine woven label ; a near identical example is shown in Mick Prodger's excellent 'Luftwaffe V RAF' flight clothing book top right of page 27. Ours is marked 'Netzkopfhaube' followed by Gr. (size) but the ink stamp is now faded but looks like 59. Below this is Baumuster (Model type) LkpN101, Great nr. T124-452. A.2, Werk Nr. -/Ko, And. Z. Ln 26670 and finally Hersteller with the ordnance code of "hdc". This confirms the helmet was made by the firm of Luftfahrtgeraetewerk Hakenfelde GmbH, Berlin-Spandau.
We really can't add much more other than yet again this one ticks all the boxes and one of the most sought after Luftwaffe flying helmets. The specification of this example, finished in dark brown net and leather with a 2 point mask arrangement and long comms cord is the one considered the true "Battle of Britain" model, based on photographic evidence. I suspect we will wait a long time to find another to match this specification and condition.
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Luftwaffe LKp W101 Winter Flying Helmet - This model replaced the pre-war LKp W100 and whilst made to the same basic pattern it featured improved Siemens communications and better sound insulation. Instead of aluminium cups the earphones are housed in hard rubber cups covered with dark brown leather which had a more streamlined appearance and with an external recess at the top which helped secure the goggle straps in place. The avionics were also enhanced by the installation of a Perspex membranes inside the helmet between the cushioned fleece lining and the earphone speaker. The housing for the throat microphones on the LKp W101 was also improved with two straps containing the microphone linked by an inverted "T" at the nape of the helmet. This housing also served as the junction between the helmet's internal wiring and the long cord and plug-in connector. The throat straps were adjustable by means of two buckles, and once correctly adjusted could be joined together or removed at the front by means of a snap fastening.
On offer is a very fine example of the type, that appears to be in almost unissued condition. The leather shell is very soft and has virtually all its original factory finish intact, with just minor rubbing to the receiver housings. It has provision for using with a 3 point oxygen mask with an adjustable brow strap fitted. The metal parts are all excellent and the goggle and chin straps are absolutely mint. The earphones Perspex covers are undamaged and embossed Ln 26602. The helmet is fully wired and carries a long wiring cord with a 4 pin plug fitted marked BLKvFL 27560 and the round throat microphones are marked Mi 4c with manufacturers code bxo. Inside the helmet is equally clean with a full lambswool lining and with a sewn in label confirming the size is Gr 56, the model nos, and other detail which includes the manufacturer's code bxo, indicating it was made by Deutsche Telephonwerke und Kabelindustrie A.-G., Berlin SO 36. The label is not dated like some but we would estimate manufacture in the mid WWII period. It also features a good clear BAL ink stamp stands for Bauaufsichten der Luftwaffe, the air force procurement agency. Like the other Luftwaffe kit we have recently listed this helmet ticks all the boxes and it would be very hard to find a better original example.
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Adler M34 Factory Fire Helmet - An excellent example that would have been issued to firemen working in the Adler factory prior to and during WWII in case of fire or air raids. Adler were pre-war and wartime military vehicle manufacturers of utility types or 'Kubels', light cars and personnel carriers. In addition they also made civilian cars too like the initial VW Beetle. The helmet is in great shape and is clearly dated 3.05.34 and made by Vorschriftsmassig Lt. Gertz. The M 34 code represents the year this pattern of helmet was introduced so impossible to find an earlier example. Nice clear painted factory logo to front and two ventilation holes either side. This one had provision for the comb but the holes have been plugged. On either side of the helmet you can make out evidence where the national shield decals were once applied. The original paint is excellent with just minor service marks and in view off the decal evidence safe to say it has not been repainted. The leather chin strap is in excellent condition and the leather liner is clearly marked Linnenbrugger & Ellermann Belfield. Below is another ink stamp with writing but we are unable to decipher. The size is marked 56. The original owners name is also written on the liner but again not possible to decipher. All in all a nice original example in good sleepy condition!
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Luftwaffe K-33 winter Flying Helmet - this was the standard WWII unwired helmet for use by aircrew for primary training as well as for combat crew positions where no communication was necessary. These were also used by single engine fighter pilots early on during the Blitzkrieg in 1939/40. It is interesting by mid war virtually all crew positions required radio contact this helmet but is documented in manufacture certainly until 1943 with later examples carrying the provision for attaching two and three point oxygen mask. This helmet is of the latter type but has had the rear oxygen mask adjusting strap removed with the brow oxygen mask clip locked in position. This may have been an in-service modification. The leather is in excellent condition with no issues and both the goggle snaps are in place and working. The chin strap buckles show minor rust Inside carries fur lining. No makers label appears to have been fitted to this helmet but it is of a medium size. Generally this helmet would represent an excellent addition to a Luftwaffe collection at an entry level price
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Luftwaffe LKpS101 Flying Helmet - First introduced in 1938, this is the Summer Luftwaffe flying helmet made from the salt and pepper material as used for the Fliegerkombi. The helmet is in very clean condition although whilst the receivers are in place the wiring loom and throat microphones have been removed from the helmet at some stage. This could be replaced as a restoration project or alternative provides an excellent entry level display helmet in its current form. It fitted for a 3 point oxygen mask, and all snaps an buckles are in place. Inside the silk lining is in good clean condition but exhibits some wear in the brow section. The helmet carries a maker's label named to Siemens with a BAL ink stamp and is clearly dated 27th June 1938 so is clearly from the very first batch of production. The lining also carries a further label reading Bekleidungswerke Neumünster Grüße 56 which we understand refers to 'Clothing Works Neumünster'. LKpS101 helmets are new becoming hard to source so despite the modifications, it makes an excellent display helmet at an entry level price.
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Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube Flying Helmet - this classic mesh flying helmet which has become synonymous with Luftwaffe fighter pilots in WWII. This example has a manufacturers label coded bxo indicating it was made by Deutsche Telphonwerke und Kabelindustrie AG, Berlin SO 36. The size stamp is 57 and hand written inside the crown is the name Hans Schmidt as well as D.F.L. which could be the initials of another owner. The helmet is in well used condition with a crack in the leather receiver housing on the left side whilst the netting is generally in very good shape. This example features tan leather receiver cups and provision for the Luftwaffe two point oxygen mask and is therefore an early pattern. This is reconfirmed by the throat microphones which are also marked bxo and Ln 26779-3 and are the earlier issue round type. The helmet carries the short communication cord favoured by fighter pilots but is interestingly fitted with what we believe to be a Russian issue 4 point communication plug and lead. This has clearly been retro fitted but can not establish if it was perhaps captured and subsequently used by a Russian airman or if the plug and cord has been replaced at a later date. We speculate this helmet may have been wreck recovered which would explain the damage mentioned and might explain the fitment of the Russian plug. We have seen cleaner helmets but this example still displays very well and is on offer at an entry level price.
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Luftwaffe Officers Fliegermetze Side cap - A fine officers private purchase example in the standard 'Schiffchen' or boat shape. The design was originally adopted in 1935 and was specified to be used when other forms of head-dress was not required to be worn by regulations. Whilst not technically flight clothing they were often taken on operational flights so in the event of being captured aircrew could still be appropriately dressed! This example was originally purchased from one of our customers and has since been in my personal collection. It is made in blue-grey wool of a better grade than used on Other Ranks caps and remains in excellent condition. It comes with silver cord piping on top of the turn-up signifying for officers use and it carries a machine embroidered Luftwaffe eagle and national cockade below. Both are hand stitched to the cap. Inside is equally clean and is lined with a blue-grey cotton twill. It does not have a makers mark and the only stamping is the size which is 55. This example, like many Officers caps of this design, does not have a sweat band is fitted. Like all items offered off our site this is fully guaranteed as an original item and we believe it would be hard to find a crisper example.
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Luftwaffe LKpW101 Winter flying Helmet - A classic of the standard pattern which was introduced into service in 1938 and then served throughout WWII. The brown leather leather shell is in excellent condition and still supple with a lambs wool interior lining which shows some service grub, commensurate with use. The goggle straps are good and the metal buckles and oxygen mask clips show none of the normal tarnishing or rust and are therefore likely to be the early nickel plated examples. The avionics are complete and the helmet is fitted with the early round Mi4C throat microphones coded bxo, an indication this helmet is from early production. This seems to be confirmed by the label that states the makers name Siemens rather than just a manufacturing code used on later production helmets. The helmet is fitted with a long communication cord and four-pole break coupling. A super helmet and and as a final bonus the helmet label is marked 59 making it a scarce large size which would correspond in RAF sizing to a generous size 4. This one certainly ticks all the boxes and whilst not mint and boxed it is a classic example that has most certainly seen some action. It won't be with us long!
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Leitz Pattern Goggles - We recently bought this set with a small collection of Luftwaffe flight headgear. They are technically general purpose goggles intended for motorized troops but whilst this was their designated use they are seen in period photos being worn by Luftwaffe aircrew and a near identical pair is listed in Anders Skotte's reference book 'Luftwaffe Flight Headgear' where he describes as 'flight goggles'. In appearance they are often confused with Model 306 but when placed alongside they are noticeably smaller in terms of frame and lens size. The rubber cushions are 100% sound and no perishing and the stitching is perfect. The olive green alloy frames have almost all the original olive paint on them. The single screw central nose bar adjuster is marked M.W. and on opposite side is stamped 42 dating them to 1942. The clear glass lenses fitted are exceptional and no fogging or damage. The original grey elastic back strap is fitted with correct adjusters but has lost some elasticity over the years but is fine for display purposes. Below each frame is a slide ventilation adjuster bar and really the only fault is on the right frame the adjuster end has broken off but does not notice or detract from a display point of view. The rubber face pads are stamped 18 and R on one and 28 on the other. All Luftwaffe flight goggles are getting very hard to find now so these represent an excellent alternative at an entry level price.
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Splitterschutzbrille Pattern Anti Splinter Flying Goggles - These came in with a small Luftwaffe collection we have recently purchased. The previous owner was sadly sold this set of second pattern Nitsche and Gunther pattern goggles as originals by an unscrupulous dealer and unfortunately this has proved an expensive exercise for him. Sadly many 'replicas' of this pattern are available on the market (some less generous would call them fakes) and when purchasing it is very much a case of 'Caveat Emptor' when considering parting with a large chunk of the collecting budget and even more so if you don't have the goggles in your hand. Many of these replicas originated from the Czech Republic although we are told by our contacts in that country the gentleman who made them is no longer with us and production has (currently) ceased. We have no idea of the origins of this set but they have been decently executed but are let down by a less than convincing back strap. The rigid frames are excellent and on reverse they are indistinctly marked "NiGuRa" and on the opposite side is stamped a '2'. Excellent tinted glass convex lenses are fitted and displayed with the 'Netzkopfhaube' flying helmet we have just listed they look the business. So an ideal purchase for a film company or reenactor who would not want to risk using an original but equally appealing to a collector to set off a Luftwaffe flying helmet display- for the fraction of the price of the real thing. We were advised the last of the Czech production was being offered in 2012 at EU 500 so grab a bargain whilst you can!
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Luftwaffe LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube Flying Helmet - this classic mesh flying helmet which has become synonymous with Luftwaffe fighter pilots in WWII. This example has a manufacturers label coded hdc indicating it was made by Luftwahrtgeratewerk Hakenfelde, Berlin-Spandau. The size stamp is 58 and is a large example and would correspond to an RAF size 3 or 4. The helmet is in nice overall condition but like many the mesh has been carefully repaired at some stage and still displays very well. This example features tan leather receiver cups and provision for the Luftwaffe three point oxygen mask and is therefore a second patter. The helmet is fully wired with receivers and throat microphones marked Ln 26779-2 and Mi 4B and also carries the short communication cord favoured by fighter pilots with a 4 point connector marked Fl 27560. Inside is commensurate with normal service use. We have had cleaner examples but would still rate this one well above average.
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Luftwaffe LKpW101 Flying Helmet - An excellent example of the standard Winter pattern with a leather shell and sheepskin lining. Generally in excellent issued condition with all correct snaps and buckles in place, together with provision for attaching a 3 point oxygen mask. The metal parts show minor age related rust. The helmet is fully wired with long communication cord fitted with a 4 pin jack plug marked Fl 27650 and also carries lozenge shaped throat microphones embossed Ln 26779-2. Inside the label is in place confirming the helmet was made Siemens and Gerat nos 124-436A. The label carries various other ink stamps but these are not clear. The Perspex receiver covers are still in place and not damaged like so many. The only issue with this helmet is the inner brow lining pad has been removed at some stage but this is not visible when on display. An excellent display helmet in above the average condition.
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Luftwaffe FK-33 Flying Helmet - this was the standard WWII unwired summer helmet for use by aircrew for primary training as well as for combat crew positions where no communication was necessary. These were also used by single engine fighter pilots early on during the Blitzkrieg in 1939/40. It is interesting by mid war virtually all crew positions required radio contact this helmet is documented in manufacture certainly until 1943 with later examples carrying the provision for attaching two and three point oxygen mask. Our example appears to be an interim version with clips for an oxygen mask and interestingly carries a crown snap fastener which is believed to be an early attachment method for a tree point mask. An identical helmet is featured in Mick Prodger's 'Vintage Flying Helmets' book, bottom of page 232. Inside the cotton lining is close to perfect and judging from the overall exceptional condition and appears to have seen only very light use. A fine specimen often missing from WWII Luftwaffe collections. A further bonus is it is a good size, possibly a 58.
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Luftwaffe K-33 Grey Leather Flying Helmet - this example being of similar deign to the summer version K-34 helmet we have also listed today but is the winter version, having a short pile lambs wool lining. This helmet has no label but seems to be a medium size. It has provision for a 3 point oxygen mask looks to be mid war production. Grey leather helmets do not appear on the market very often, and are reported to have often been used in conjunction with the grey leather flight suits favoured by Me 262 pilots. A near identical specification helmet to ours is illustrated in Mick Prodger's 'Luftwaffe v RAF Fight Clothing' book on page 23. Another often missed pattern that could complete a gap in the more specialist Luftwaffe collection.
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Nitsche & Gunther Splitterschutzbrille Flying Goggles - Designed by the Luftwaffe medical expert Dr Knothe to provide eye protection to aircrew and reduce the chances of injury from splinter damage caused by shrapnel. This was achieved by the curvature of the lenses. This is a late war example, introduced into service in 1944 with the frame being moulded in three sections with a hinged bridge over the nose and they look particularly good with the tinted lenses fitted which are also in great shape. The back strap is manufacturer from plain ribbed non elastic silk on each side with an elasticized section at the back between two buckles; this still retains its elasticity. While some good copies of these goggles manufactured in Czechoslovakia are available on the market we have checked these in detail and are happy to guarantee them as original. However please feel free to ask for more detailed pictures prior to purchasing to check them out yourself so don't just take our word for it! This pattern really are getting like 'hen's teeth' and these are only the third set we have had here in the last 10 years. Please also check out the other Luftwaffe flying headgear we are listing today!
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Model 295 Luftwaffe flying Goggles by O.W. Wagener & Co Rathenow - the aluminium frame confirm this example is late war production, as earlier examples featured painted brass construction. These is clearly marked O.W. confirming manufacturer. The rubber is in first class condition and we have not seen better. The classic oversized lenses are the rather sexy tinted ones which look great on display and are in close to mint condition with no fogging or other damage. The Germans only fitted first class lenses to their goggles and certainly no nasty Perspex as used in period RAF goggles. The back strap is original in olive drab elastic and still elastic and fitted with correct connectors and adjusters and is named to T.Konczy. Period Luftwaffe goggles are getting increasingly hard to find now and this set is as good as we have had here. A near identical example is illustrated in Mick Prodger's excellent book 'Vintage Flying Helmets' at the bottom of page 243. If you can afford a top draw set grab these whilst you can as they won't be here long!
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Luftwaffe Model 306 Fliegerschutzbrille by O.W.Wagner & Co - flying goggles model 306 which are often referred to as by the generic term Leitz. This set are in average plus issued condition. The rubber face cushions show some age wear but are generally good for display purposes. The central nose bridge is good and is fitted with two small adjust screws. It is maker marked to the reverse O.W.The black painted alloy frames are good and are fitted with above average glass lenses. The original back strap is still elastic and in very good shape. The original issue card box and spare lenses are now absent. These goggles are now getting hard to find in any condition; these are realistically priced to reflect their overall condition
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Luftwaffe Model 10-6701 Two point oxygen mask - To complement the other Luftwaffe items we have listed today is this incredibly scarce two point oxygen mask. Almost all that surface on the collectors market today have been lake recovered or are largely rebuilt with non original parts and harness fitted. This example is 100% original and is clearly early production using green rubber with a chamois leather face apron. Later in the war supplies of masks to this specification dried up as all rubber production was at that time controlled by the allies and the Luftwaffe had then to rely on black synthetic manufactured masks. It does not carry any makers marks or codes but it is embossed 2 indicating the size. The harness is in top condition with the green rubber of the mask below it showing close to the original shade. The mask features a double strap harness arrangement and is located on a central lug. The straps terminate with large retaining clips. The oxygen tube is again in very crisp condition with the bulldog clip being clearly marked AB confirming the maker Auer. These masks were favoured by fighter pilots; please check out the how good this example looks when displayed with the LKpN 101 helmet we have listed today. We make no apology for the price we are asking. This is a fine example of a fighter pilots oxygen mask that would be hard to better and therefore attracts the same, if not more interest, than the RAF D mask that now regularly achieve a similar or greater price.
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Auer 302 Neophan Glider Pilot's Goggles - These were designed for both motorcycle and aircrew use and date from the pre-war and WWII period. The frame is nickel plated with leather face cushions and sprung elastic back strap. This pattern had the advantage of providing a wide field of view. This set is fitted with Perspex lenses which we believe to be replacements but an excellent display example of a scarce NSFK issue goggles.
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Nitsche & Gunther Splitterschutzbrille Flying Goggles - Designed by the Luftwaffe medical expert Dr Knothe to provide eye protection to aircrew and reduce the chances of injury from splinter damage caused by shrapnel. This was achieved by the curvature of the lenses. This is a late war example, introduced into service in 1944 with the frame being moulded in three sections with a hinged bridge over the nose. The inside of the is embossed 'Nigura.' This stands for Nitsche & Günther, Rathenow, the town in Germany where the goggles were manufactured. The silken finish elastic back strap is in good shape with minor rust to the buckle and the set comes complete with issue tin, which shows minor age wear and Luftwaffe stores code Fl 30550. While some good copies of these goggles manufactured in Czechoslovakia are available on the market we have checked these in detail and believe them to be an original issue item. However please feel free to ask for more detailed pictures prior to purchasing to check out the detail and don't just take our word for it! Please check out the other Luftwaffe flying headgear we are listing today!
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Luftwaffe Model LKpN101 Netzkopfhaube Flying Helmet - A near text book example of the classic mesh flying helmet which has become synonymous with Luftwaffe fighter pilots in WWII. This example has a manufacturers label coded hdc indicating it was made by Luftwahrtgeratewerk Hakenfelde, Berlin-Spandau. The size stamp is not clear but it is a large example and would correspond to an RAF size 4 so possibly a 58 or 59 European size. The helmet is near perfect inside and out, featuring tan leather receiver cups and provision for the Luftwaffe three point oxygen mask. The helmet is fully wired with receivers and throat microphones and also carries the short communication cord favoured by fighter pilots. The netting is also faultless and we would say impossible to find a crisper example and fully satisfies the collectors criteria 'always buy the best you can afford'. Please note the oxygen mask and splinter goggles illustrated are for display purposes only and this sale is for the helmet alone although both items are available and are being listed separately.
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Luftwaffe Fliegerbrille Flying Goggles DR352 - A near text book example in original issue box indicating manufactured by Phillipp M. Winter werk no. 1597. The goggles are fitted with clear lenses and the nose bridge is dated (19)42. The back strap is in near perfect condition and a spare set of tinted lenses in cloth pouches marked umbral 75% complete the set. The issue box shows some age wear but otherwise would be hard to improve upon.
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