WW2 RAF/Private purchase Pilots Luxor 12 flying goggles (they came from the same source as the Lewis pattern flying helmet so may have been worn together) An iconic set of these 1930s - early WW2 Battle of Britain period Luxor 12 flying goggles, made famous by the instantly recognizable photo of RAF 32 squadron Pilot Officer Keith Gilman. This iconic image captured the essence of what was to become known as "The Few", all pilots who served and flew during the Battle of Britain. The goggles themselves were approved for operational use by the RAF but were only purchased and used by the more wealthy RAF pilots. They truly were the best goggles money could buy at the time, manufactured by E.B Meyrowitz of London, they were designed with large lenses, meaning visibility was excellent. The frames are also well-ventilated, with large Triplex safety lenses, available in clear or tinted versions. The salmon pink face pads proved to be extremely comfortable and well-fitting. A fully adjustable bridge meant they could be made to fit any size wearer, as well as an adjustable strap. They were the best goggles of the late 1930s bar none. Nowadays they are synonymous with the Battle of Britain and "The Few", but are also now highly coveted by collectors. 
This pair is in pretty good used condition, all things considered. Unfortunately the rubber pads are missing, although the salmon coloured stitching remains in place. The frames of the goggles still retain most of the chromed finish, stamped on the side of the goggles with the model "Luxor 12". One lens has a small piece missing (see photo) which has impacted on the lamination, the other is in good, clear condition. The nose bridge adjuster still moves easily and the bridge is also marked, "Made in France". To the strap and fittings, we find the medal fittings have a small E.B.M mark also just visible, this is the manufacturer's mark for E.B Meyrowitz. The strap is somewhat stretched now, no wonder considering it's probably at least 80 years old! However, it is still fully adjustable and can be made to fit over a helmet with ease. Some light soiling and spotting but nothing bad.
Overall a decent but not perfect pair of these now rare early war, Battle of Britain period goggles.