WW2 RAF/Private purchase Pilots Luxor 12 flying goggles

WW2 RAF/Private purchase Pilots Luxor 12 flying goggles. An iconic set of these 1930s - early WW2 Battle of Britain period Luxor 12 flying goggles, made famous by the instantly recognizable photo of RAF 32 squadron Pilot Officer Keith Gilman. This iconic image captured the essence of what was to become known as "The Few", all pilots who served and flew during the Battle of Britain. The goggles themselves were approved for operational use by the RAF but were only purchased and used by the more wealthy RAF pilots. They truly were the best goggles money could buy at the time, manufactured by E.B Meyrowitz of London, they were designed with large lenses, meaning visibility was excellent. The frames are also well-ventilated, with large Triplex safety lenses, available in clear or tinted versions. The salmon pink face pads proved to be extremely comfortable and well-fitting. A fully adjustable bridge meant they could be made to fit any size wearer, as well as an adjustable strap. They were the best goggles of the late 1930s bar none. Nowadays they are synonymous with the Battle of Britain and "The Few", but are also now highly coveted by collectors. 

This pair is in pretty good used condition, all things considered. The frames of the goggles still retain most of the chromed finish, stamped on the side of the goggles with the model "Luxor 12". Lenses are also in excellent clear condition, also marked with a small Triplex logo on the side. An interesting feature of these goggles is the addition of prescription lenses, something we haven't seen before. One lens is now loose but could be refitted, or the other lens could be removed to take them back to their original state. The nose bridge adjuster still moves albeit a bit stiff, the bridge is also marked, "Made in France". To the strap and fittings, we find the medal fittings have a small E.B.M mark also just visible, this is the manufacturer's mark for E.B Meyrowitz. The strap is somewhat stretched now, no wonder considering it's probably at least 80 years old! However, it is still fully adjustable and can be made to fit over a helmet with ease. Some light soiling and fading but nothing too bad at all. The only real issue we can see is age-related, the rubber face pads have unfortunately hardened and are pretty well set now, there is also a small crack/split in one cushion as can be seen in the photos. Again unfortunately this is what tends to happen to 80-year-old rubber. However, at least the facepads are still in place and not missing. 

Overall then a good pair of these now rare early war, Battle of Britain period goggles, so iconic now. They would grace any early RAF collection, museum, or display. Do not miss these and grab them while you can!

OVERSEAS BUYERS, PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE FIRST.