Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. At the end of the 50's the APH series helmets introduced a new generation of flight helmets characterized by the external visor covered with a protective shield. Improvement of the communication system, internal liner and oxygen mask retainers was also made and in some versions the dual dark and transparent visors system was installed. These types of helmets were the US Navy and USMC standard jet aircraft headgears during the 60's and throughout the 70's. In this period the first development of a flight helmet incorporating the Visual Target Acquisition System (VTAS I) was also made. Furthermore during the late 60's, flight tests were performed to verify the suitability of a full face "Clam Shell'' helmet designed to eliminate the oxygen mask and to give better protection during ejection.
This example is a very early version of the APH-6 series (still with no letter designation) introduced during the early 60'. Its shell is constructed of a polyester impregnated fiberglass cloth laminate and the visor shield/locking mechanism was the same as the APH-5’s later version as well as the internal liners and earphone fixation system. The APH-6 shell introduced the new and unique "Butterfly" retention and release assembly used to secure the oxygen mask.
The shell is in good condition with much of the original paint. The shield cover features a beautiful set of Navy pilot wings with the word NAVY just below it. The interior has unfortunately degraded to time. The padding has become extremely brittle and flaky and the rear leather helmet pad is missing. The left earcup has become detached but can easily be fitted back to where it belongs.
This is truly a wonderful example and comes ready to display!
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