KM U-boat G7a Torpedo GA VIII Gyroscope + Transit Box
A truly stunning, original boxed example of the Kriegsmarine U-boat airdriven GA VIII (Geradelaufapparat VIII) torpedo gyroscope!
The GA VIII was used in all of Kriegsmarine's straightrunning G7a torpedoes, as well as others with various modifications since it was possible to preset the launch course to a maximum of +/- 90 degrees.
This particular example is matching serial numbered '12905', and is presented in superb condition owing to having clearly being stored within the original reinforced wooden storage box for some considerable time within Norway - where remaining stores of the WWII German G7a (TI) torpedo were still being serviced for use until 1999!
It is constructed with a solid brass main body, with a copper and nickel main wheel / outer surround, and some smaller steel ancillary parts. The main gyroscope wheel, which would have spun up to 21000 rpm in operation upon launch, can still be spun perfectly smoothly on its bearings such is the truly outstanding quality of the engineering on this piece.
The original reinforced wooden transit box is also included; complete with the inventory card that notes the matching (main) serial number of this gyroscope '39721', as well as the serial of the specific G7a torpedo with which this example was once paired.
The box retains the vast majority of the original red paint to the internal area with shipboard grey present to the exterior. The box notably also features an internal metal housing to hold the gyroscope, which is cradled within a specially designed suspension frame - a critical feature in order to ensure that any pre-set calibration / direction settings for the instrument would not be lost in the event of any rough handling prior to installation within the torpedo. The gyroscope still comes with the 4x bolts to enable it to be fitted and removed from the frame/box when desired.
Overall, a magnificent and highly displayable example of an extremely rarely seen piece of Kriegsmarine U-boat related equipment! The critical component from what was, arguably, one of the most feared weapons employed during WWII!
*N.B. please note this item is both large/bulky and very heavy when considering shipping. Shipping costs may also differ from those calculated by the automated checkout system. Collection preferred wherever possible.