GRUMMAN F4F WILDCAT, USN BU AERO, GENERAL ELECTRIC MKV RPM GAUGE

With a top speed of 318 mph the Wildcat was outperformed by the more manoeuvrable, and longer-ranged Mitsubishi A6M Zero, however its ability to absorb substantial punishment and still remain flying coupled with a change in USN combat tactics enabled the stocky fighter to claim an air combat kill-loss ratio of nearly 9:1 by the close of the war. 

The Wildcat's RPM in 100’s is indicated on the outer scale, whilst RPM in 1000’s is indicated in the inner window at 9 o'clock. As the engine speed increased, the large pointer rotated clockwise.

Passing the 12 o'clock position, the numbers in the small window would rotate and indicate the RPM in 1000's. This is a ‘sensitive’ tachometer in that it provides more precise resolution of the engine speed vs earler versions with a single pointer and an additional internal speed ring for the full RPM range.

With a service tag dated 3/8/47 this generation of of tachometers went onto to be installed in the carrier-launched USN Douglas Skyraider which had replaced the highly successful USN WWII dive-bomber - the SBD Helldiver.

With its highly detailed 1/72 or super detailed 1/48 scale model of the F4F Wildcat mounted above on its magnetic arm and its detailed laminated Fact Sheet, this Recovery Curios Original Vintage Aircraft Instrument Collectable would make an unforgettable and highly prized gift for any aviation enthusiast. 

Mounted in its 100 yr old Mango Wood Display Stand with engraved plaque and highly detailed custom built A-20 Havoc model atop its magnetic arm, this would really make a fantastic pilot gift or a one-of-a-kind gift for that special aviation enthusiast in your life.

This Grumman F4F 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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