unique early 1940's vintage american industrial welder's helmet or mask with a rectangular-shaped stationary eye shield with lens. the riveted joint helmet is comprised of a molded gray fiberglass composite. the machine shop helmet was fabricated by the general electric company, u.s.a. the helmet features a unique cluster of metal mesh screen ventilation holes along the top. welding helmets are used to protect the eyes, face and neck from flash burn, ultraviolet light, sparks, infrared light, and heat emitted from arc welding. the helmets are necessary to prevent arc eye, a painful condition where the cornea is inflamed. all welding helmets include a window covered with a filter called a lens shade, through which the welder can see to work. in older helmets, the window may be made of tinted glass, tinted plastic, or perhaps a variable-density filter made from a pair of polarized lenses. surface wear and discoloration consistent with age. similar helmets in stock.