Original U.S. WWII 1942 Dated Coast Guard Kapok Life Preserver Vest by ACME Products Inc.
In stock
-
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a really nice example of an early war example of a UCG Kapok life vest. Similar examples can be found on the United States Coast Guard in World War II website found at this link. It is nicely marked as follows:
ADULTS
ACME PRODUCTS INC.
152-156 BREWERY ST.
NEW HAVEN, CONN.
APPROVAL NO.
APPROVED
BUREAU OF MARINE INSPECTION
AND NAVIGATION
AUG 29 1942 J.B.H.
The vest is in the correct Navy Blue color, as used by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. This is the first of this model of life preserver that we have had, as they were more easily used post war than the "Mae West" type, which required air for inflation and functionality. This type of preserver was also intended more for "General" use, and not just for pilots.
The larger size would have made it cumbersome in the cockpit, but for ship-based servicemen, it was perfect.
There were numerous variations of "Kapok" life preservers, as the name actually applies to the plant-based flotation filling, made from the tropical tree Ceiba pentandra. The cotton-like fluff and fibers obtained from the tree were known in English as "Kapok", and are both buoyant and water-resistant. The material was the "go-to" for life preservers until superior synthetic materials were developed.
This example is in great condition, and is complete, with all ties and the waist straps present and functional. This design does not have a neck rest, and can be put on either way, which is definitely a plus if one needs to fasten one up rapidly. The markings are all very clear and make for a great display.
This Is Not Intended To Be Used As A Life Saving Measure. FOR DISPLAY ONLY.
Comes ready for display and further research!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
We Buy Military Antiques
Our team expert buyers travels the world to pay fair prices for entire estate collections to singular items.
START SELLING TODAY
