Antique Siebe Gorman & Co. Diver's Knife, England, Pps. 20th Century

Antique Siebe Gorman & Co diving knife made by the prestigious manufacturers of diving equipment in the early 20th century. This knife is quite a rare piece: very few were made, so today they are quite sought-after by collectors. The knife shows a sharp pointed design with double razor; the metal surface bears the manufacturing companys name, SIEBE GORMAN & CO, clearly engraved. The blade is connected to the hilt by a brass cross-guard and a ring, both in fine condition. The hilt is made of black plastic and shows off a stylized tapered shape, with several parallel grooves at the grip that make it easier to grab. The scabbard that protects the blade is made of brass too and is greatly preserved; the pointed end has a rectangular opening designed to let the water out. This fascinating antique Siebe Gorman & Co diving knife will be the starring piece of any collection of underwater old-time pieces. Measurements: Total Length: 13.4 in / 33.5 cm. Blades Length: 7.6 in / 19 cm.Siebe Gorman & Co Ltd - History Siebe Gorman & Co Ltd was a British company which manufactured and sold diving and breathing equipment. It was founded by August Siebe who in 1819 started a business as a mechanical engineer in London. After some years, Siebe specialized in underwater material so in 1930, the Deane brothers asked him to create a variation of one of their smoke helmets which could be used as a diving helmet. From then on, Siebe improved George Edwardss helmets and created his own model: a helmet connected to a complete diving suit. The real innovation of Siebes equipment was the valve mounted in the helmet, which made a real success of the design. In 1870 Siebe retired and left the company to his son Henry H. Siebe and W.A. Gorman. From then on the company acquired its definite commercial name. In 1954 they started manufacturing Cousteau-Gagnan-type aqualungs and sport diving suits. The company disappeared in 1998. Measurements: Total Length: 7.6 in / 33.5 cm. Blade Length: 13.4 in / 19 cm.