This helmet was made by the Craftsweld Equipment Company. When this helmet was made the Craftsweld name was owned by the A. Schrader Diving Equipment Company located in Bowie, Maryland. This company was the successor of the iconic A. Schraders Son Company that made diving equipment in the 19th and 20th Centuries. A. Schraders Son would start making diving helmets and related equipment in the 1840s. Throughout the 19th Century, they would improve upon diving helmet design and become a supplier to the US Navy. During the early 20th Century their helmets would utilize the latest techniques in design and safety. In addition to supplying the US Navy, Schrader helmets and equipment were used by commercial divers around the world. Schrader would go on to be a major supplier of the famed Mark V from 1916 till after World War II. In 1935 the company would be sold to Scoville Manufacturing while retaining their same name. In 1952 the company was then sold to Craftsweld, who did not use the Schrader name on their helmets. In 1999 the company was sold and renamed the A. Schrader Diving Equipment Company reviving the iconic name. In 2018 the company changed ownership and continues to carry on the fine tradition of high-quality helmets and preservation of its history. Today, helmets made by this company regardless of the time period are prized among collectors for their iconic styles and place in diving history.

This special helmet was made in the last 20 years and has never been used or put in the water. The helmet has a copper body with brass hardware, all of which is present and in polished beautiful condition! The helmet features the original Craftsweld Equipment Co. brass ID plate with serial # stamped clearly into it. During the 20+ years, the company was located in Maryland very few helmets were made. Now and in the future helmets from this time period will be a rare piece of the companys linage.

This stunning helmet was made in the configuration of a model made in the late 19th Century! Referred to as a 4 light (windows) 12 bolt (wing nuts on breastplate) helmet with no communication fittings. In keeping with the 19th Century style, the helmet does not have a communication cup or fitting on the breastplate to accept a telephone. The style of the exhaust is also consistent with helmets of the late 19th Century made by Schrader. It goes without saying that this helmet would fit in any collection, office, home or museum, and impress everyone! Finding a helmet in this pristine condition from the 1800s would be literally impossible, hence why this piece was made by Schrader!

As can be seen in the photos, the helmet is in like-new condition. The helmet was polished out to near perfection when made. Like a copper penny, this helmet will develop a patina over time or can be occasionally polished to retain its brilliance. All the components of the helmet function just as they should. We are selling this as a display piece only. The helmet could be taken to a certified dive shop and likely be ready to use with little or no work.

Finding an authentic 19th Century Schrader helmet is always a rare occurrence and in many cases, they can reach astronomical amounts of money. The next owner of this helmet will not only have a prized helmet but one that could be used without worrying about damaging a 100+ year-old antique. This helmet originally cost Schrader Diving many-many thousands of dollars to make. Now is your opportunity to own an authentic 4 light 12 bolt helmet and enjoy it any way you like!

The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.

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.

All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping is available; however, no ocean freight will be offered on large items. DHL Express is an option for international shipments under 600 pounds via air. Payment via bank wire for customers outside the USA is required. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.