The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $1,595 delivered within the contiguous United States.
 
One of the few companies to make a commercially successful shallow water diving helmet was the EJ Willis Company. They were located in New York and supplied a large assortment of equipment and helmets to the diving industry. Starting around 1933 EJ Willis had the Snead Company, located in Jersey City, New Jersey, produce cast iron shallow water helmets for them. The helmets have the Snead Company name on them; therefore, they are now commonly known as Snead helmets. The Snead Company’s primary business was the manufacturer of high-end architectural castings for use inside and out of buildings. 
 
This specific helmet is the 3rd style of helmet Willis would produce. Made of solid cast iron, the helmet weighs approximately 65 pounds. A large curved window on the front allows the diver a good field of vision. A simple air hose fitting located at the upper back of the helmet is the extent of its mechanical function. Once the user enters the water, the buoyancy allows the helmet to rest comfortably on the shoulders while excess air exits around the lower edges. If, in the event of an emergency, the user leans forward, allowing the helmet to fall off, the diver then goes to the surface. 
 
The helmet is in excellent original with no issues with the cast iron body. The original curved window with the internal frame is still present and in great condition! It is difficult to find this model with an intact and presentable window and frame. The cast iron has developed a wonderful patina over the years. Many people enjoy restoring these helmets as they are fairly simple to work on and test. 
 
Shallow water helmets are a wonderful part of diving history. This classic piece dating to the Great Depression has always been collectible and fun to use when properly restored. The Style 3 also makes for a great display piece in any collection. As long as they are not dropped on a concrete floor, these helmets are virtually indestructible! 
 
All helmets sold by Nation’s Attic Inc. will come with a certificate of authenticity (COA). This COA will have a serial # on it that will match the # on a tamperproof holographic decal placed on the inside of the helmet. This level of security and long-term assurance of the helmet's authenticity is unmatched in the industry and very important to us.
 
The price includes a 4% credit card fee. If you pay by check, money order, or bank wire, the discounted price is $1,595 delivered within the contiguous United States.