Diving Helmet

Production date
1960s
 Country
USA
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Object detail

Description
Divex Mixed Gas Diving Helmet - Advanced Series 2000, c.1960s (USA)
12 bolt, 1 large front viewing light (window). Also known as the Beckman-Swindell diving helmet.
Classification
MARITIME TECHNOLOGY Diving Diver's helmet
Maker
Production date
1960s
Production place
USA
Measurements
H455mm x W400mm x D400mm
Media/Materials description
Fibreglass
Signature/Marks
Manufacturer's paint sticker (centre front of corselet):
DIVEX
MOP 36 stamped into upper neck ring (above left shoulder)
History and use
The Divex advanced air diving helmet was one of the earliest modern diving helmets. It is constructed of a lightweight and non-conductive fibreglass material which made it suitable for underwater cutting and welding. The helmet was originally developed by George Swindell and manufactured by Advanced Diving Equipment in Gretna, Louisiana, USA. They later merged with Beckman Instrument Company.

The helmet could be used with a corselet or with a neck ring. Using the corselet had two disadvantages; firstly, since the helmet has only one large front glass you would have to turn your whole body to look side ways and secondly, the corselet required and nut key for six sided nuts.

Divex can trace its pedigree back to an iron foundry with engineering works in Aberdeen. This company was owned by Barry, Henry & Cook.
Associated person
Registration number
H3894

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Country

USA

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