Us Army Air Corps Type B-7 Flying Goggles-american Optical
This is an original pre-World War II issue pair of U. Army Air Corps Type B-7 flying goggles, a rare and highly collectible piece of early military aviation gear. Manufactured by theAmerican Optical Co. These goggles represent the pinnacle of pre-war aviation protective equipment, designed for Army Air Corps pilots navigating the open cockpits of military aircraft.
The center bridge is maker-marked with U. GOGGLE, TYPE B-7, confirming their authenticity and designation. These goggles were constructed with a heavy-duty brass and nickel frame, built for durability and performance under extreme flight conditions. Featuring tube vents, the B-7 goggles were specifically designed to reduce fogging, ensuring clear vision at high altitudes. This set includes amber glass lenses, which are in excellent condition.
The amber lenses were favored for their ability to enhance contrast and reduce glare, providing improved visibility in varying light conditions. The goggles include an currrent replacement two piece cushion, ensuring continued wearability while preserving the original integrity of the frame. The original brass-sewn retainer rings are still intact, a crucial feature that secures the cushions and lenses in place. The B-7 goggles were produced in relatively small numbers, making them exceptionally rare today.
As an early war and pre-war model, they were eventually superseded by later designs, further limiting their availability in the collector's market. This pair is rated museum-grade, with overall excellent condition, making it a prized addition for serious collectors of WWII aviation memorabilia, military historians, or vintage flight gear enthusiasts. A truly hard-to-find, highly desirable piece of pre-WWII Army Air Corps history! If there is a problem or concern contact me and I'll make it right.
Once feedback is received I will reciprocate.