ORIGINAL RAF TYPE D OXYGEN MASK HOSE / ADAPTOR TUBE 6D/561+ 6D/101 CONNECTOR

SOLD
 
For sale from my private collection is an extremely rare, original Type D Oxygen Mask hose (6D/80) fitted with the Mark IVA Adaptor to turn it into an Adaptor Tube (6D/561).

The Type D Oxygen Mask was introduced in the 1930s, and utilised a constant flow oxygen system which necessitated a 5ft length of rubber tubing, complete with Mark IIIB * (6D/101) connector, to enable fitting to the aircraft's oxygen system. Whilst the hoses came in a variety of finishes, the final iteration consisted of a length of unbraided hose in black rubber, usually with three yellow bands to denote its use as a piece of oxygen equipment. Numerous photos show this type of hose in use during the Battle of Britain, and consequently this particular hose is highly sought after by Battle of Britain collectors.

This particular hose is in exceptional condition, still beautifully flexible and without any significant crazing to the rubber. As the photos show it is very supple and still retains excellent colour, and clear banding. The Mark IIIB* Connector is also in exceptional condition, dated 1939, and completes the set perfectly. 

The hose is fitted with Mark IVA Adaptor to enable its use as an Adaptor Tube (6D/561). This particular iteration is one of the rarest to find, being 5ft in length. The hose in this configuration would be used to enable the use of the later E/G/H series Oxygen Masks to work with aircraft fitted with the earlier constant-flow oxygen systems. The hose would also be used by bomber crews to facilitate the use of portable walk-around oxygen bottles. 

Original hoses for the D Type Oxygen Mask are extremely rare, particularly in this configuration as a full-length adaptor hose, and most collectors would be forgiven for investing in a reproduction to complete a display. This is a unique opportunity to obtain an original in a very desirable condition.
 
You may never find another.