Tracking the Origin of a Long-Retired Altimeter
hi all,
I figured the history & nostalgia forum was a good a place as any to start for my question, so, here goes.
I have acquired an old altimeter/altitude gauge (whichever you want to call it). Approximate age would be 50 to 60 years old.
On the back of it is a partly scratched-off coloured decal/stamp that says "Qantas Empire Airways". A screwed on metal panel reads
"Type No. 2101-5A-B3-950 Pioneer Instrument CO. Inc. Bendix, New Jersey REG. U.S. PAT. OFF. MADE IN U.S.A."
Below that, in raised lettering on the actual casing of the instrument it says "PIONEER REG. U.S. PAT. OFF." again.
There is also a stamp, which is unfortunately faded, though I believe the date is 5 JUN 1945. Two (looks like) hand-painted numbers on the face below the center which read "G106A/2014"
Has only the 'clock face', no subscale or anything, and a knob at the bottom which when turned rotates the actual numbers behind the dial.
What I am wondering - is there any way I can find out where this instrument came from? I am awfully curious as to its history, and what lovely old aircraft it has flown in. Sounds silly I know but I'm dying to find out. It just looks like it has some stories to tell.
If anyone knows of a better place for this post, please let me know.
Thanks for any help.
Sky