Our annual auction for 2025 is fill with authentic antique and vintage diving helmets and related memorabilia from the 19th and 20th Century. Iconic copper and brass diving helmets made by AJ Morse, A. Schrader's Son, DESCO, Miller Dunn, Siebe Gorman, Craftsweld and more are featured. Vintage fiberglass diving helmets from Joe Savoie, Bob Ratclife, Kirby Morgan and more also also being sold.
The second part of the auction features a lifetime collection of antique & vintage golf balls. These balls date to the late 1800s into the 1960s.
The third part of the sale features a selection of silver US coins.
Rounding out the sale is a small selection of rare antiques.
|
LOT 24:
Bob Ratclife “Rat Hat” Oceaneering Diving Helmet
more...
|
|
|
Sold for: $6,250
Price including buyer’s premium:
$
7,500
Start price:
$
4,000
Estimate :
$8,000 - $12,000
Buyer's Premium: 20%
More details
sales tax: 7.5%
On the lot's price and buyer's premium
Users from foreign countries may be exempted from tax payments, according to the relevant tax regulations
|
Item Overview
Description:
The "Rat Hat" stands as one of the most iconic and historic diving helmets of the late 20th century. This fiberglass helmet earned its nickname from the divers who used it, honoring its designer, Bob Ratcliffe. It was highly prized by professionals worldwide.
Oceaneering, the company that employed the "Rat Hat, " was exceptionally protective of these vital pieces of equipment, taking every precaution to prevent the loss of even a single helmet. Today, finding one of these helmets, especially in good condition, is very difficult.
We are proud to offer this "Rat Hat" diving helmet, an exceptional example in truly impressive condition—among the finest we've ever had the privilege to handle. This helmet is offered as a display piece only. Although it was in working condition not long ago, any potential operational use would necessitate the replacement of seals, O-rings, and other components, followed by a comprehensive certified inspection.
This helmet is an "air hat, " although it is configured for gas diving, featuring a second-stage regulator. The deep rich yellow paint on the fiberglass body is in excellent shape, displaying only minor surface flaws in a couple of spots. The helmet was likely re-painted at some point. The chrome hardware is largely in excellent condition. The top carry handle, which retains its Oceaneering International button, has two filled holes. The helmet's internal components are complete and also in very nice condition, reflecting its overall excellent state of preservation.
Such an iconic helmet in this condition is worthy of any collection or museum!
All diving helmets in this auction will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Nations Attic. The certificate will have a unique number that will match the number on a tamperproof hologram decal placed inside the helmet. This information will be kept on permanent file at Nations Attic and help ensure the provenance of the helmet and authenticity. The display stand shown in the photos is not included. The option to purchase one after the auction will be provided.
All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping is available; however, no ocean freight will be offered on large items. DHL Express is an option for international shipments under 600 pounds via air. Payment via bank wire for customers outside the USA is required. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code. International bidders are advised that some countries do not allow the importation of knives. Nations Attic is not responsible for shipping charges going or coming back if your countries customs denies delivery. Rejected items can be consigned into a future sale as there are no refunds.
