Wings of Steam

This subject is a bit more dieselpunk than the normal content of this blog, but if that bothers you, just pretend it’s being powered by a steam engine.

The Armstead Snow-Motor was developed in the 1920s as a solution to the problem of hauling objects during the winter months. Sitting atop two screw-shaped cylinders which turned in unison, a Fordson tractor would be able to navigate over deep snow drifts without losing its grip. The silent film below demonstrates just how maneuverable it was and goes on to show the Snow-Motor design being used on a Chevrolet car.

This design became known as screw-powered vehicle technology and was even used by the Germans during World War II.

Thanks to Ezra Moreau for the video.

On March 4th in New York, the pocket watch originally used by Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi will be up for auction by a group called Antiquorum Auctioneers.

Mahatma Gandhi’s silver Zenith pocket watch (circa 1910-1915) is expected to attract significant interest.  The pocket watch belonged to Gandhi, who later gave it to his grandniece, Abha Gandhi, his assistant of six years, and in whose arms he died.

Also offered as part of the same lot are Gandhi’s sandals, glasses, bowl, plate, and letters of authenticity. The bidding is expected to reach between $20,000 and $30,000.

Link.