WW1 RFC MK1 Flying Helmet & Gosport tubes - 1918 Dated

WW1 period RFC MK1 flying helmet & gosports. 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 well-worn helmet, based on the RFC MK1 flying helmet of WW1, this helmet is identical in design. But instead of having the usual flaps for the ears, this has had Gosport fittings installed, used for communications within an aircraft. Gosport tubes were a very rudimentary method of communication, and were simply a tube that connected the pilot and aircrew together which they would speak down. Only the second example we have encountered before, it is not out of the question that 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 well-used and aged condition; however, the leather is still soft and supple, retaining a light brown chromed finish. The helmet would have been lined with fur, but his is largely absent now, with some later fleece sections added. However, it does still retain its original chamois lining to the top and the manufacturer's label. Indicating it was manufactured by "Geo. H. LEAVE & CO", dated below this, I believe 1918, and marked a size 7. We estimate this to be around a size 56 UK hat size.

The brown ear flaps fitted with press studs are still in place. The chinstrap is in place, but unfortunately, the buckle appears to be missing, either removed, or the stitching failed. A goggle retaining strap is attached to the rear of the helmet. The helmet, as mentioned fitted with Gosport earphones; they have some surface verdigris deposits but otherwise no issues we can see. There are some small areas where stitching has begun to fail, but noting too serious, if left alone and displayed well, this helmet will be fine.

Overall, a rare helmet that would display nicely in any WW1 RFC or flying collection, museum, or display. 

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