WW II German WH Army J-Feder 504 PIONEER MECHANICAL TIMER VERY RARE

  

This item was used for the delayed detonation of a large charge in areas abandoned to an opposing force. With a time delay from one hour to 21 days (because the Germans were starting to retreat from many conquered territories), the clockwork mechanical delay fuse, the J. Feder 504, has an aluminum case containing a spring-loaded striker actuated by a clockwork mechanism through a trip lever. There are 2 dials for setting the delay period.

The dial marked in red (rot) is for the number of days (tage). It can be set for any number of days up to 21. At the end of the delay period, determined by the setting, a lever arm on the rotating control disk on the clockwork bears against the trip lever, disengaging the head of the striker shaft. The released striker fires the percussion cap, the detonator and the main charge. Only 30000 units were ever made between 1943 to 1945.

The serial number range 1 through 20000 always had a brown finish, while the later, models had a brass/green finish. Made of lightweight steel, aluminum, and bakelite, this Mechanical Fuse set was manufactured between 1943 and 1945, and is in EXCELLENT condition! There is some slight wear, scratches, and marks, but it is very solid otherwise, and retains 95% of it's original finish! The main dial is marked in black (schwarz) for hours (Stunden); and the dial marked in red (rot) is for days (Tage). It is graduated in ¼-hour increments up to 24 hours. 2 screws are provided for a hole in the side of the base of the fuse.

Normally, it should have two screws for setting the timer, one marked "Blind", the other marked "Scharf". Sadly, the "Blind" screw is missing. The screw marked SCHARF (armed) is the arming screw, and that is included, however. 100% FUNCTIONAL, it comes complete in the original box, which is stenciled J.

There are 2 holes to hold the re-cocking tool and a spare percussion cap. Instruction label is pasted to the upper case. The Serial Number " 15313 " is on the outside of the box, as well as on the timer, indicating this is a matching set. A VERY NICE and HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER item, it would make a SUPERB addition to any collection or display!