Sopwith Camel Seat film for the Everyday Lives in War project

First World War aircraft were extremely flimsy and it was essential to save weight wherever possible to prevent the planes breaking up in flight. To this end, basketwork seats were used as they were both light and strong. This short film follows Tony Dyer, a flight test engineer, as he builds a replica First World War Sopwith Camel aeroplane cockpit to house an original compass which belonged to his grandfather. Tony is joined by Tim Palmer, who makes a seat for him, and Bunty Ball who explains more about basketwork aeroplane seats.

[@leonardoconnell7161]

Fantastic craftsmanship going into the seat construction. Truly a labor of love...

[@marcusjahnke9287]

Beautiful workmanship!

[@user-sr1mh8mo6m]

Thanks for the plug at 6.00

[@jameswest685]

Casting for harry Potter missed a natural here. Great work by the way.

[@paulmoore5401]

I’m building a replica Sopwith Camel and I’m interested in purchasing a seat for my aircraft. Could you please contact me? Thank you.