Vintage Scuba: 1974 "Americana" Swim Fins - S09E18

[@LetItRide-c6j]

I have the Americana Rocket Fins. Been sitting in the garage for many decades. They are still in nice shape. Will be for sale maybe soon.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

This is a repeat question. Look for my reply in the first question. A

[@josephdracula7487]

👍very interesting 👍

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@sammoyers905]

I had the Americana Rocket fins. Used them for years. They did wear out fast. Went to the Super Rockets after that.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks for sharing Sam. I went through a lot of rocket fins myself. A

[@owenmougenot712]

Hi Alec. You talked about Ultra-violet light and the rubber breaking down. I recall working in a molding shop years ago that made lawn chairs there was an ingredient in the poly propylene mix called UVI (ultra violet inhibitor). it was expensive so you used as little as possible in the lawn chairs ,just enough to give a summer outside then they would break (usually the back legs) and they would sell you this years model. I presume the red white and blue fins are very hard after this long. take care Owen m

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Hi Owen. These fins are still flexible as they are not a thin or stretchy like a mask strap. Also these were not used in water so they are in near perfect condition for 47 years old. I know about UVI's and think it is in the spray i use for rubber protection. The fins and knife have lasted due to their thickness and proper storage for all these years. Still have lots of Vintage to share in the next months. A

[@DarR1299]

I remember those rocket fins. They were too flashy for me. Consequently I bought the black Rockets and the tri-glass mask which I still like using today although I have modern equipment. Notwithstanding, I also still have that same knife but in a brown rubber and brass configuration. I can reduce 5 lbs of lead if I wear it.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Oh yes. Some old dive knives would add 3 pounds to one side and keep you flipped over. Still need the knife in case of shark or giant octopus attacks. A

[@LetItRide-c6j]

Curious what my Americana Rockets are worth. Once in a while someone asks where to find some.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Auctioneers say it's worth what anyone will pay. Google to see if any have been sold recently, how much and its condition. Mine are in near perfect shape almost 50 years latter. A

[@BlackPawGaming]

almost all colors for any flags are red white and blue . looks like France to me. :D

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

It could be but the the box was very much USA focused. A