WW2 RAF Early 1st pattern C-type flying helmet

WW2 RAF EARLY FIRST PATTERN C-TYPE FLYING HELMET. A lovely early 1st pattern C-type flying helmet, sometimes referred to as the 2 up, 2 down strap C-type. This because of the strap arrangement on the helmet. This was the first flying helmet issued after the ubiquitous B-type flying helmet, this sub pattern of the C-type with its strap arrangement being the very first type produced and issued to aircrew. 

This example here is a rather nice one we must say, we haven't had one as nice as this for some time! These very early 1st pattern C-type's becoming a rather rare and desirable helmet among collectors now. This helmet is rather nice, we find the helmet to be very lightly used with no major wear or damage to the leather. Some light marks etc, but no tears, rips or holes we can see. Fitted with the aforementioned 2 up, 2 down straps used for holding on the wearers goggles. All straps in good condition as are the 4 press studs. The two rubber earcups still firmly attached and in excellent soft malleable condition. We have checked and these will easily accept a pair of receivers with ease, all stitching in excellent condition as well. To the top and rear of the helmet is painted the number "607", very possibly relating to a squadron, or maybe aircraft code. we are unsure? The name "NELSON" is also painted in the same white paint to the front of the helmet. We do have some research on this person made by the previous owner we can include. on either side of the helmet we find two press studs, on the right hand side we find a correct pattern oxygen mask hook, in excellent condition. Finally on the exterior the chinstrap and rear buckle are all in good condition. The chinstrap still with the metal V plate on the end of the strap, often missing. The Bennett buckle also in excellent complete condition. 

Inside we find some soiling from wear and use, not too bad however. The only issue we can really see with the helmet is some loose stitching to the velvet material brow pad. It has come undone and would benefit a small repair. Obviously not noticeable at all if displayed on a head. Both chamois ear donuts in good condition too, no issues to report. Strangely for an RAF helmet we cannot see any markings, or stamps. Normally you'd expect to see a A.M stamp to the exterior or an A.M label inside the helmet. Now this helmet is unfortunately avoid of any markings, however this is not uncommon to see on these very early 1st pattern C-type's. I have a similarly unmarked 1st pattern C-type in my own personal collection. So possibly these weren't marked until the Air ministry/RAF were fully happy with the C-type helmet. I do not know otherwise, regardless most definitely an RAF issued helmet. Size wise we have to estimate it at approximately a size 55 UK hat size, as it fits our display head here. Possibly a size 2 helmet then. Overall a very nice example of these early C-type helmets, worthy of any RAF collection, display or collection. 

OVERSEAS BUYERS PLEASE CONTACT US FIRST FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE.