28” VINTAGE ANTIQUE 1930s SHIP BOAT LIFE PRESERVER BUOY MARITIME NAUTICAL FLOAT

Antique life preserver ring circa 1930s.  This unique piece of maritime history is likely from the early 20th century.  Life preserver rings from the 1930s often had cotton fabric canvas covers like this because synthetic materials like nylon and vinyl weren’t widely used until the mid-20th century. The presence of a natural fiber rope, likely hemp or cotton, also fits the time period of this preserver ring since synthetic ropes became more common later in the 1970s and beyond.  The weathered fabric cover and natural fiber rope are consistent with materials used during that time. Stitching: If the stitching is hand-sewn or shows early machine stitching patterns it is indicative of the 1930s. Shape and Size: Life rings from the 1930s were often slightly bulkier due to cork or kapok filling, unlike modern foam-filled versions. Rope Attachment: Earlier designs had rope secured with metal clips or eyelets, while later versions used molded plastic or synthetic fasteners.