This wonderful looking gadget is a 1950s BTH Intermediate Lantern Morse code Signalling Lamp. Admiralty Pattern W2174 LM 6-4 serial number B.C 4338. It was manufactured by BTH (British Thomson Houston), who were manufacturers of the iconic ‘Aldis Lamp.’ Used extensively by allied Navies during WW2 for Morse communication when ships were running ‘dark’ in radio silence.
To send a signal, the user depresses the trigger which in turn moves a metal sleeve away from the internal light source. This produces a pulse of light i.e. morse code. It could be battery or mains operated producing 2-2000 candlepower.
This particular example is in good used cosmetic condition. It works when connected to a battery but has not been tested to see if it is working using Main’s electricity.
Labels on the lamp:-
Switch Off After Use Patent No. ??? (unable to read)
BTH British Thomson Houston Aldis Lamp 1954 Admiralty Pattern W2174 LM 6-4 Serial number B.C 4338
Approximate Size:- External Diameter of Face: 8.7cm External Diameter of Rear: 6.4cm Length:- 17.7cm (7″) Distance from top of sight to bottom of handle:- 26cm
