Ex whitewash M35 KM to M40 specs

[Bill Hermann]

Thanks for all the comments guys.
Spoof I am interested in what leads you to the conclusion that the remaining whitewash is oxidation??
I have seen pots that can have a finish that looks mottled and a bit light from corrosion but the key here is the remaining finish in low /protected spots like the air vents, rivets and scratches which is textbook for an ex whitewash lid IMO. And it's also quite prevalent on the chinstrap.
Regards, Bill

[bigschuss]

Great ex-whitewash helmet Bill! Love the names. The liner looks treated to me. Still a very attractive helmet!

[spoof]

Let me start by saying, how was the so called whitewash removed?

[NARVIK1940]

This kind of remnant whitewash is quite common to see.

[Bill Hermann]

Let me start by saying, how was the so called whitewash removed?

It wore off or the soldier would scrub it off once the season changed.
I think you are confusing whitewash with white paint. Whitewash was a very thin possibly lime based coating that all manner of equipment was coated in for camo purposes when the snow arrived . It doesn't stand up to the ravishes of time or wear like paint. Do a search on the forum, there are lots of white washed helmets out there that show the same characteristics as this one.
Regards, Bill

[luft02]

hello
very nice KM
a+
christophe

[jacquesf]

Superb helmet Bill, I have a Luft with the exact same whitewash remains. Just the right amount of wear and history for me. J

[spoof]

Yes. I am speaking of whitewash and not white paint. The difference is understood.

You are correct stating it was a thin base lime mixture application. However, you also stated the helmet is an ex whitewash.

The collecting community has for years mis identified your helmet as an example as an ex whitewash.

Whitewash removal would still need a solvent. What most commonly found on a battlefield would be gasoline or diesel fuel which would severely damage the decal.

I have obtained many many helmets directly or indirectly from veterans. You would be surprised how many have a white film oxidation around the airvents and rivets.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with your helmet. Actually very nice. Accept it for what it is but
Not an ex whitewash.

[hervé30]

what about the strap ? Any stamp on the tip ? was it on the helmet ?

Please show some pics?

Just for my knowledge

thanks

[Bill Hermann]

what about the strap ? Any stamp on the tip ? was it on the helmet ?

Please show some pics?

Just for my knowledge

thanks

Hi Herve, the strap was on the helmet and has the faintest maker mark and date that can be seen when you hold it on an angle in the sun. It is dated either 1940 or 1942, will try to capture it with the camera in the morning.
Regards, Bill

[Bill Hermann]

Yes. I am speaking of whitewash and not white paint. The difference is understood.

You are correct stating it was a thin base lime mixture application. However, you also stated the helmet is an ex whitewash.

The collecting community has for years mis identified your helmet as an example as an ex whitewash.

Whitewash removal would still need a solvent. What most commonly found on a battlefield would be gasoline or diesel fuel which would severely damage the decal.

I have obtained many many helmets directly or indirectly from veterans. You would be surprised how many have a white film oxidation around the airvents and rivets.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with your helmet. Actually very nice. Accept it for what it is but
Not an ex whitewash.

No problem spoof, you are well entitled to your opinion. It's pointless continuing on arguing as I no doubt won't change your mind and you won't change mine!
Best regards, Bill

[spoof]

No problem spoof, you are well entitled to your opinion. It's pointless continuing on arguing as I no doubt won't change your mind and you won't change mine!
Best regards, Bill

I don't have a problem with that.

[Bill Hermann]

These are for you Herve, very hard to get that makers mark on camera. Dated 1942.

[Bill Hermann]

A few more, cheers, Bill

[SirPayne]

I love everything about this helmet! It has to be rare to see a KM with remains of whitewash. There is no doubt in my mind that it is exactly that.