Kriegsmarine mine laying piece

[kevin schmid]

Hi
I recently stumbled over this piece. The seller claims that it was used for finding mines.
Can anyone help me out ?

[compressore]

Schwimmer R

Looks like a Schwimmer "R" like shown in the attached drawing.
Your is lying upside-down.
The devices were used to keep the the mine clearing lines and equipment floating in the right depth and angles.

Regards
Christian

Picture from http://www.ship-model-today.de/sd130.htm

[glaser]

I agree with Christian!

It would be interesting to know if you have found any markings on it? Some other navies noted text on a plate welded upon it or just welded markings onto the Schwimmer itself.

[kevin schmid]

Thank you for the help, thought I would restore it. Do you know which collour it should be ?

[compressore]

Hi,

please note that this equipment was produced and used without any alteration after the war by several navies, including the BM and NVA.
Therefor the questions from Glaser about the markings to find out if you have a KM piece or a later one.
Based on some pictures, the original color is dark grey or black.
The small pole on the top contained a light source to observe the run of the device in the water.

I personally would NOT put new color on it. Get the blended parts straight (if possible without damage), the mechanics work and clean and then only preserve it.
That is all I would do.
New color decrease the value (that is me)

Regards
Christian