FAIREY FIREFLY ‘BATH TUB’ MORSE CODE SENDER KEY

FAIREY FIREFLY ‘BATH TUB’ MORSE CODE SENDER KEY
FAIREY FIREFLY ‘BATH TUB’ MORSE CODE SENDER KEY FAIREY FIREFLY ‘BATH TUB’ MORSE CODE SENDER KEY FAIREY FIREFLY ‘BATH TUB’ MORSE CODE SENDER KEY FAIREY FIREFLY ‘BATH TUB’ MORSE CODE SENDER KEY
$750.00
Add 1/48 SCALE, DETAILED MODEL UPGRADE for just $35.00
Add PERSONALISED COLLECTABLE OPTION for just $90.00
In Stock SKU: 2327

Original Air Ministry ‘Bathtub’ Morse Code Sender Key installed in the Fairey Firefly.

Known as the ‘bath-tub’ morse key due its resemblance to an old fashioned bathtub, the brown bakelite Morse Key was fully enclosed for operations across many RAF aircraft to ensure its sparking did not ignite fuel fumes.

From left to right, you see the hinges, the two electrical stubs, the large signalling knob (designed to also be used with gloves) and the spring that held both the upper and lower halves together. 

This spring could also be used to hold down the signalling knob to broadcast a continuous carrier wave. This was done during ditching procedures or when the crew had to bail out of the plane (mostly over water) and in doing so, hopefully enable rescuers to secure a fix on their last position.

Whilst used primarily aboard the RAF’s Medium and heavy bombers, the fact that the Morse Code Key was waterproof also made it suitable for use in carrier-launched aircraft such as the Fairey Firefly, the Fairey Swordfish torpedo bomber and the Australian Wirraway light fighter/bomber.

The Bathtub Morse Code Sender was mounted on top the starboard wall of the Observer/Wireless Operator's position behind the pilot. 

Mounted on a stylish 100yr old Mango Wood Display Stand with engraved plaque and a highly detailed 1/72 or 1/48 scale model of this British Fleet Air anti-submarine patrol aircraft perched above, on its magnetic display arm and detailed Fact Sheet, it’s an ideal gift for any aviation enthusiast.

This Fairey Firefly instrument comes complete with detailed Scale Model, Mango Wood Stand & Plaque plus Printed Fact Sheet featuring photo of instrument in aircraft cockpit

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Your Fairey Firefly Bathtub Morse Code Sender, Original Recovery Curios Warbird Collectable includes:

  • Original Warbird instrument
  • Highly detailed hand-built and airbrushed 1/72 plastic scale model of the aircraft,*
  • Hand-crafted and beautifully finished 100yr, Far North Queensland Mango Wood display stand
  • Detailed, 2-sided, printed and laminated Instrument Fact Sheet detailing aircraft and instrument
  • Removable Magnetic Display Arm

*An upgrade to the larger and more detailed 1/48 scale model is also available in the hand-built and airbrushed plastic version for an additional $35 (Click on the 1/48 scale option)

Both the 1/72 & 1/48 scale hand-built and airbrushed plastic models are available with 'canopy open or closed' options, landing gear 'up or down' and wings 'folded or open' with a choice of two Squadron markings and camouflage.

Upon order placement you will receive an email asking for your preferred configuration.

Your complete Recovery Curios Original Instrument Collectable is securely packed and delivery normally takes between 4 - 6 weeks approx.

Did you fly, crew or maintain a Fairey Firefly or have a friend, colleague or family member who did? Check out our PERSONALISED ORIGINAL INSTRUMENT COLLECTABLE OPTION here.