Vintage Diving Helmets

Here is a category of collectibles that, although not for everyone, can be challenging, fun and exciting! Vintage diving equipment, especially early diving helmets. The first diving helmet was actually designed by the Deane brothers in the 1820's as a "smoke helmet" to be used by firemen in smoke-filled areas. In 1827, the brothers sold the patent of their original design. Then In 1828, they decided to redesign and patent their invention and the diving helmet as we know it today was born following successful trials in Whitstable, England. An example of one of the earliest 1916 U.S. Navy Mark V diving helmet recently sold at auction for $21,000! FYI: A complete set of vintage diving gear complete with helmet, suit, weight belt, weighted boots, etc., could weigh from 200-300 pounds!