A Vision of the Deep
In 1882, brothers Alphonse and Théodore Carmagnolle designed an innovative diving suit aimed at reaching depths over 60 meters. With its lobster-like shell, this suit represented a significant leap forward in underwater exploration at the time, born from a growing fascination with the ocean’s depths.
A Pioneering Design
The Carmagnolle brothers, engineers from Marseille, sought to build a diving suit that could withstand extreme pressures at greater depths. After securing patents in 1866, they developed a full-metal design. In 1882, a Parisian armorer brought their creation to life, taking over a year to complete the suit, made from steel and weighing nearly 260 kg.
Innovative Yet Flawed
This steel armor aimed to protect the diver’s chest from immense water pressure. It featured a helmet with 20 small glass ports for clear vision underwater. Although the suit was groundbreaking in terms of its flexibility and movement, the joints didn’t provide a perfect seal, preventing complete waterproofing.
A Historical Artifact
Originally owned by Louis Denayrouze, a famous diving suit inventor, this remarkable prototype remained in his possession until 1939, when it was donated to a museum. The suit stands today as a testament to early underwater technology and innovation.
In 1882, brothers Alphonse and Théodore Carmagnolle created a revolutionary diving suit designed to withstand pressures at depths over 60 meters. Its lobster-like shell was a bold step in underwater exploration, aiming to push the boundaries of deep-sea technology.🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/NCQfaMoSTD
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) March 31, 2025