WW1 period RFC MK1 flying helmet & gosports

WW1 period RFC MK1 flying helmet & gosports. Really nice early 20th-century flying helmet, fitted with Gosport fittings for communications. As worn by early aviators, pilots and aircrew during WW1 and into the 20s. 

A really rather lovely helmet, based on the RFC MK1 flying helmet of WW1 this helmet is also identical in design. But instead of having the usual flaps for the ears, this has Gosport fittings, used for communications within an aircraft. Gosport tubes were a very rudimentary method of communication and simply were a tube that connected the pilot and aircrew together which they would speak down. We have not come across an example like this before, but it is not out of the question these helmets were made for RFC pilots and aircrew to communicate with each other whilst in flight. Larger multi-engine bombers were flown during WW1 and these would have had sometimes up to 4 crew members. 

The helmet itself is in excellent condition, the leather still soft and supple, retaining an excellent light brown chromed finish. No damaged rips or tears to report. The helmet is lined with fur and a fleece section, again without damage or issues. The brown flap fitted with a press stud is still in place. The chinstrap and buckle are again in excellent condition with minor surface corrosion to the metal fittings. A goggles retaining strap to the rear of the helmet as well, once again in good condition. The helmet as mentioned fitted with Gosport earphones, they have some surface verdigris deposits but otherwise no issues we can see. Overall a lovely helmet that would grace any WW1 RFC or flying collection, museum, or display. 

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