WWII German Luftwaffe Pilot Early Model AK 39 Wrist Compass By Kadlec (Original)
SKU: GERMAN LUFTWAFFE PILOT EARLY MODEL AK 39 WRIST COMPASS BY KADLEC
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-Stock
Manufacturer: Germany
Date Manufactured: 1940s
Model: AK39
Size / Dimensions: Overall diameter is 60 mm
Weight: 19 oz
Materials / Construction: Metal, Rubber, Plastic, Pure Petroleum (kerosene) Liquid inside
Condition: Mint
Price: $300.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
Original "Mint" WW2 German Luftwaffe Flight Personnel Wrist Compass (AK 39). The compass is molded black and clear bakelite construction and liquid filled. Wrist compass with a blackened leather wrist strap.
History
During World War II, aerial combat demanded precise navigation tools to ensure pilots could swiftly maneuver through the skies with accuracy. Among the arsenal of instruments used by German Luftwaffe aviators, the AK 39 wrist compass by Kadlec stood out as a reliable companion, guiding pilots through the tumultuous battlegrounds of the era. Let's delve into the significance and functionality of this early model wrist compass.
A Brief History: Developed in the 1930s, the AK 39 wrist compass was a testament to German engineering prowess. Manufactured by Kadlec, a renowned company specializing in aviation instruments, this compass quickly became an essential component of Luftwaffe pilot gear. Its compact design and reliable performance made it a preferred choice for aviators navigating the expansive skies over Europe during the war.
Design and Functionality: The AK 39 wrist compass boasted a robust construction tailored to withstand the rigors of aerial combat. Encased in a durable metal housing, the compass featured a luminous dial marked with precise cardinal directions, allowing pilots to maintain course even in low-light conditions or under duress. Its adjustable strap ensured a secure fit on the wrist, granting pilots quick access to navigation data without impeding their movements in the cockpit.
Operational Advantage: In the fast-paced environment of aerial warfare, split-second decisions could mean the difference between victory and defeat. The AK 39 wrist compass provided Luftwaffe pilots with a crucial navigational edge, allowing them to maintain orientation amidst the chaos of dogfights or navigate through dense cloud cover with confidence. Its intuitive design and reliable performance enhanced situational awareness, enabling aviators to execute intricate maneuvers and evade enemy detection effectively.
