WWI RFC ORIGINAL 1ST PATTERN LEATHER FLYING HELMET AND TRIPLEX TWIN LENS PADDED FLYING GOGGLES

WWI RFC ORIGINAL 1ST PATTERN LEATHER FLYING HELMET AND TRIPLEX TWIN LENS PADDED FLYING GOGGLES
WWI RFC ORIGINAL 1ST PATTERN LEATHER FLYING HELMET AND TRIPLEX TWIN LENS PADDED FLYING GOGGLES WWI RFC ORIGINAL 1ST PATTERN LEATHER FLYING HELMET AND TRIPLEX TWIN LENS PADDED FLYING GOGGLES WWI RFC ORIGINAL 1ST PATTERN LEATHER FLYING HELMET AND TRIPLEX TWIN LENS PADDED FLYING GOGGLES WWI RFC ORIGINAL 1ST PATTERN LEATHER FLYING HELMET AND TRIPLEX TWIN LENS PADDED FLYING GOGGLES
$1,120.00
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In Stock SKU: 2697

Original WWI Early RFC 1st pattern Flying Helmet & Triplix Twin-lens, padded flying goggles

The Arco two-seater DH1 reconnaissance, and the later single-seater DH2 fighter resolved the issue of needing to mount forward-facing firepower for better attack manoeuvrability by deploying a rear mounted engine with a ‘pusher’ propeller.

Whilst the German Eideker monoplane had solved the challenge of firing through the forward propeller arc via a synchronised firing mechanism, the RFC had still to develop a similar design. The rear-mounted ‘pusher’ configured Arco’s were the RFC's interim solution. 

These original, early WWI Triplex, circular, double lens, fur-lined eye cup flying goggles predate the later RFC standardised Triplex flying goggles which featured the more recognisable ’ tear-drop' lens.

Each Triplex lens is housed in its circular brass frame backed onto a canvas/leather ‘cup’ with fur-lined padding running across the bridge of the nose which provided a close and more comfortable fit. 

Over 100 years old and understandably showing their age with some fraying and a partially exposed wire frame on the right eye cup, the goggle's straps and leather are remarkably intact for what is undoubtedly the forerunner of today’s modern aviator goggles.

The 1st pattern, RFC Leather Flying Helmet features a tailored, adjustable neck and ear flaps togther with a brass chin buckle as well as a leather drop down visor.

Whilst the left ear flap is missing and stitching repairs to a couple of leather panel joins are visible, the helmet still retains the original brass poppers mounted on the aged-softened leather.

Displayed together on their custom manikin head mounted on its 100 year old mango wood stand with engraved plaque, this incredibly rare WW1 RFC pilot flying gear combo also features an amazingly detailed, hand-built 1/48 scale model of either the classic 2-seater DH1 or single seater DH2 ‘pusher’ biplane mounted on a removable magnetic arm.

Simply click on either the DH1 or DH2 option at the top of this page to secure a fantastic, original and irreplaceable piece of WWI aviation history.  

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Your Airco DH.1 or Airco DH.2 WWI RFC Flying Helmet and Triplex Flying Goggles Original Recovery Curios Warbird Collectable includes:

  • Original WWI Warbird Flying Helmet & Goggles
  • Highly detailed hand-built and airbrushed 1/48 plastic scale model of the aircraft
  • Full size black plastic manikin display head mounted on Mango Wood display stand 
  • 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 flying gear
  • Removable Magnetic Display Arm

The 1/48 scale hand-built and airbrushed plastic model of either the DH.1 or DH.2 is available 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 6 - 8 weeks approx.

Did you fly, crew or maintain a Airco DH.1 or DH.2 or have a friend, colleague or family member who did? Check out our PERSONALISED ORIGINAL INSTRUMENT COLLECTABLE OPTION here.