WW2 RAF 1st pattern C-type flying helmet set - NAMED - F/O LOVE EA

WW2 RAF 1ST PATTERN C-TYPE FLYING HELMET SET. A well-aged complete flying helmet set, consisting of a 1st pattern C-type flying helmet, G-type oxygen mask, MKVIII goggles, with wiring loom.  

Best described as a well-aged set, this one. With all pieces having some age-related wear and tear, we have reflected this in the price. Regardless, as you can see, the set does still display very well on a mannequin head. We'd say this would make a great entry-level set for the budding RAF collector. 

Starting with the 1st pattern ctype helmet, the exterior leather is very well distressed, with several areas of cracking, splits, and some peeling. The helmet is fitted with original rubber earcups in good condition, still with chinstrap, buckle, and goggle retaining straps. The interior of the helmet is rather better, showing good, honest use. It is also named inside to a F/O LOVE E A, a quick search finds a Flying Officer Edwin Albert Love, who served with the RCAF in No. 78 Squadron. Sadly, he was a casualty in 1944, being shot down over Holland, during a flight to Bochum in Germany. We cannot say this is the original owner, but it could possibly be. More research is required, and we will leave this to the new respective owner. The helmet is interestingly wired with an internal wiring loom, instead of the usual external loom. We have seen this before, but it is an uncommon thing to see. We can clearly see where the loom has been stitched to the side of the helmet, and no doubt we believe this has always been this way. The loom itself is in pretty good condition, all things considered. Complete with earphones, jack plug, and microphone socket. 

Moving on to the G-type oxygen mask, this again has some condition issues, with the edge of the mask having been cut off, no doubt due to deterioration; the nose wire is also missing, but the harness wire is present. Again its a well-aged example, but it does the job when displayed on a mannequin head. The harness still retains good elasticity. 

Finally, the MKVIII goggles, much like the helmet, they have suffered from some peeling and splits to the leather; regardless, they are complete, with strap and original lenses. These goggles are also the early version with the rectangular nose bridge adjuster. Once again, when put together with the helmet and mask, they do display well. 

Please do study the images, and please satisfy yourself with the condition of this set; it's not mint condition by any means, but as mentioned, it would be a great starter set for any budding RAF collector. Also named, it's an original, honest set, giving scope for further research. 

Overall, a well-aged but original 1st pattern C-type flying helmet set, ideal for an RAF museum, collection, or display.

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