RAF TYPE C FLYING HELMET - EARLY INTERMEDIATE PATTERN, EXTERNALLY WIRED

SOLD
 
For sale is a rare, early pattern C Type Flying Helmet. 22C/452 - Size 4.
 
This particular helmet is a lovely example of an early, externally wired C Type Flying helmet; this being a very rare intermediate iteration with the additional male press-studs for fitting the E* Oxygen Mask, and no forward goggle straps fitted.
 
The helmet is in very good/excellent condition. Externally the leather is thick and juicy, retaining all of its straps and press studs, all of which operate smoothly and retain the majority of their painted coatings. The rubber receiver holders are perfectly shaped, and although they have hardened they can still be carefully fitted with receivers. The Bennett's buckle still retains its leather covering and is in very good condition.
 
What sets this helmet apart from standard externally wired helmets is the lack of forward facing goggle straps, and the ear cups themselves, which are fitted with internal rubber flanges for noise cancellation. These design elements are typically seen on internally-wired helmets, making this helmet an important transitional example.
 
Internally the helmet has very minor soiling, showing little service use. The inner ear cushions are nicely shaped, and again in very nice condition. The helmet has some great markings, both to the interior and to the leather chin strap section, with the code indicating this is a size 4. As the photos show it displays perfectly on my male display head.
 
All in all this is a rare, early pattern C Type Flying Helmet in excellent condition.