Antique Replica Divers Helmets

Introduced in 1917 by the U.S. Bureau of Construction & Repair, the Mark V Diving Helmet was used for most salvage work during World War II. The Mark V Diving Helmet became standard U.S. Navy Diving equipment and allowed all divers to explore the world below for extended amounts of time. In the mid 1930's rubber fins, snorkels, and goggles were introduced and increased the popularity of diving. By the end of the 1930's high pressure air tanks that gave divers complete freedom from the air hoses spelled the end of the Mark V as the preferred divers helmet. These beautifully detailed replica capture the spirit of the early days of man's exploration under the sea. Click on product name or image to view product details.

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Making History

When Hollywood needed vintage diving gear, it turned to a Third Ward firm that is the sole remaining maker of the classic helmets. An old Milwaukee manufacturer is literally hanging its hat on a Hollywood production hitting theaters this weekend. DESCO Corp., a 1937 company in the Historic Third Ward, makes the bulbous metal deep-sea diving helmet used by the U.S. Navy for nearly 50 years and featured in the historical drama "Men of Honor," starring Oscar winners Robert De Niro and Cuba Gooding Jr.  Read the rest of the article....