Exquisite example of a rarely seen French diving helmet! This 4 light 3 bolt (four windows and 3 neck ring bolts) diving helmet was made by the historical helmet maker Charles Petit in Paris, France.

It is estimated that this helmet was produced at the very end of the 19th Century or early 20th Century in Paris. The helmet features a castellation seam running vertically from the front bottom edge of the bonnet and in-between the front & top window. The very top peak of the bonnet has a separate round castellation seam. This construction method was standard during the 19th Century and into the early 20th Century. When the seam is exposed, it demonstrates in a fascinating way how the helmet was assembled.

This helmet features an exhaust valve, acoustic telephone connection fitting, air fitting, three neck ring nuts, neck ring gasket, faceplate gasket, all the glass, internal air vents, exhaust button and the all-important brass Petit ID plate.

The helmet features a wonderful consistent patina to the copper body and brass hardware. The bonnet does have some minor working dents, but none are severe. All of the glass is in good condition with no cracks or breaks. The neck ring gasket is dry but complete. The brass ID plate is worn down but the CH. Petit can still be clearly made out.

This beautiful French helmet was discovered in New Orleans, LA approximately 40 years ago by our consignor. He was told that the helmet was brought to New Orleans from France by a nautical collector who treasured it for decades beforehand. Regardless of the helmets history, today it stands proudly as a valuable piece of French diving history.

All diving helmets in this auction will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Nations Attic. The certificate will have a unique number that will match the number on a tamperproof hologram decal placed inside the helmet. This information will be kept on permanent file at Nations Attic and help ensure the provenance of the helmet and authenticity. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.

All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping available. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.