An original 1908 Pattern Water Bottle carrier, dated 1918 and converted after the Great War.
In 1921 an order was issued that all water bottle carriers were to be converted from the standard front press stud previously employed to a top fastener as seen here. This was done by adding two new straps.
The manufacturers name is still legible inside the cradle and reads 'MECo' which denotes Mill Equipment Company. The 1918 date is visible after the name. There is also an inspectors stamp with the number 357.
The cradle is in good condition overall retain all of its brass work. It has been blancoed at some stage with a light green shade of blanco, typical of the inter-war and BEF period. There are some signs of wear and use as shown in the pictures.
Altogether a good example of a converted water bottle carrier with a nice date which would be ideal for someone interested in the British Expeditionary Force or similar.
