ANTIQUE 1880s - ? BRITISH Siebe Gorman & Co Air Pump, Fire & Diving, Siren Horn

Description

This is a fascinating piece of British history. It is unknown what year this particular one was built, but Siebe first developed these around 1880 as an air supply to diver's helmets and later for firefighters helmets. Once technology passed this equipment by, these stayed in production and when mounted with a trumpet-horn, would be used as a siren, primarily aboard ships, but for other applications as well.
This item shows it's age with much natural patina. The bellows leather is good, except a couple of wear holes in the side(pictured). It is in working condition, as the reed is still mounted in the fitting on top and will resonate when the bellows is quickly depressed. Without the trumpet, it sort of sounds like a sick goose...
The original Mfg. & operation plates are in good condition and very readable.
Dimensions: L25"xW13"xH11"