Italian M33 Is It WW2?

**flash developer** · 06-15-2010, 04:33 AM

Hi All,
This was purchased from Unique Imports Inc in the '70s by my grandfather. It was sold as "Italian type WW2 Helmet".

Is this a WW2 collectable helmet? Is it original? Is it in good shape?

Thank you all for sharing your wisdom!
(more pictures are available if needed)

**emileverbunt** · 06-15-2010, 08:56 AM

This looks good. The early greyish colour is visible through the later olive. The straps look good as well: grey leather. The bales are rectangular and not trapezoid as are the post war ones, which is good as well.

The way the stitching is done is important for dating. Do you have a detailed photo?

Cheers,
Emile

**flash developer** · 06-15-2010, 04:23 PM

Thank you for your quick response!

Here's a closeup of the liner stitch. The helmet's back in storage so these are the only pictures, unfortunately. Does this help?

And do you recommend any paint removal for this one, or just leave it?

**emileverbunt** · 06-16-2010, 08:52 AM

Looks like horizontal stitching, threfore most likely WW2. I would definitely leave the paint as is! This helmet is all original.

I once owned a M33 with the same coats of paint. It was WW2, no doubt. Bought it in Greece in 1969.

Leave the leather and paint as is. No vaseline or other stuff to "improve" the leather. It has survived well for more than half a century in this state.

Congrats with this nice helmet.

Cheers,
Emile

**magicdutchmen** · 06-16-2010, 02:49 PM

To add to Emile's post;
From the photo this helmet has early style rivets and is WWII.
Can you find any maker markings on the outside of the chinstrap attachment?

**flash developer** · 06-16-2010, 10:11 PM

Thank you Emile!

Dutchman, are you speaking of markings on the leather or markings on the chin strap itself? Here's a closeup but the helmet is back in storage right now.

**magicdutchmen** · 06-17-2010, 10:05 PM

Well there are examples with markings on the chinstrap or liner but you should be able to find markings on the metal where the bale is attached to. When you gently push the chinstrap attachment to the inside you shoule be able to see it.