Hello folks.
A few days ago, I was lucky enough to pick this one up off eBay. These are not easy to find intact, and while the facepiece has hardened, it is at least still all together.
The ARS 17 was introduced by the French in 1917, as a replacement for the less sophisticated M2 mask. It is similar in design to German respirators of the period, though it has a few features that are absent from German masks, most notably the addition of a hole for an exhale valve below the filter thread. As well as being supplied to the French Army, they were also sent in large numbers to the Belgians. The ARS 17 saw heavy use through the latter part of WWI, and was manufactured and used postwar as well.
In this case, both mask and canister are wartime. Postwar canisters used swivel-type fixings for the carry straps, and the instruction sheet inside the lid was printed in both French and Flemish, with a dividing line down the centre. This canister, in line with wartime specifications, uses simple welded brackets for the straps, and the instruction sheet is printed solely in French. For the mask itself, the biggest difference between wartime- and postwar-produced examples is the head harness. Postwar, the straps used cloth-covered springs, whereas this example utilises simpler elasticated canvas.
As stated previously, this example is in a condition typical for gas masks of this era. The facepiece is solidified and crumbling, and retains only the slightest flexibility. The celluloid lenses are in good shape, as are the metal components, with some light rust on the filter attachment and canister sections. The carry tin is in similar condition, with some deformation (a common problem with French gas mask canisters of this period) and some heavy rust to the inside of the lid. It opens and closes without issues, however.
I'd held off on buying a WWI rubber mask for a long time, knowing how difficult they are to preserve, and that they are seldom found in good condition. However, I'm very happy with this one. It's rough around the edges, but it will display nicely.
Regards, B.B.
Bookmarks