Grimes Signal Light

madmike · Post by **madmike** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 12:33 pm

I hope this is the right place to ask this question but here goes. I'm sure Wes will chew a new one if it is not. While looking over an estate sale at a local ranch, I ran across a Grimes Signal light, Model K-3, Air Corps Type C-3-A, 12 and 24 volt, and a number on the outside case 82-544076. The case is black and contains a hand held signal light and three colored lenses, still in their original cardboard box. The data sheet does not indicate a date for the instrument and since it says Army Corps Type, I presume it is WWII vintage. It has a wire lead and a two prong plug that looks like a 110 AC plug. The condition is remarkable and looks newer. If anyone knows about this item or would be interested please contact me or advise the list.

The widow would like to know the value for when she has a yard sale. I'd just like to know how it was used. I presume it could have been used on hastily built airfields in lieu of a tower. Any old aviators out there?

Thanks once again...Mike

Post by **wesk** » Sat Jul 18, 2009 2:33 pm

It was used by towers, flightline safety officers and maintenance folks and in the aircraft. It's primary purpose was for signalling and usually just the standard tower signals. Steady green go. Steady red stop. Flashing red/green return to starting point. I haven't seen one with a for sale price in years but I would imagine somewhere between $25 and $100.

It would look just fine in your jeep. I still recall seeing those in use during the 60's and 70's when I was still in the Air Force.

acengraver · Post by **acengraver** » Sun Jul 19, 2009 9:38 am

I've got one of the Grimes C3A Lights. Mine says US Army Air Forces. The plug is missing but it has the colored lenses and a mask that narrows the beam down to a smaller diameter. I paid about $35 or $40 dollars for it a few years ago at a local gun show.