German VI flying bomb FZG-76 'Everacting' fuse model 80A

the V-1 (or doodlebug as it was more often known) was the worlds first guided missile and the first was launched on London on 13 June 1944. Our fuse is the model 80A and was fitted in the rear fuse pocket. The arming pin hidden beneath the screw cap would be pulled before launch. This enables a pin from the clockwork mechanism to be pulled out thus setting the clock in motion and at the same time removes the safety cap under the head of the striker. The mechanism can be set to run from 4 and up to 132 minutes. On completing of the pre set time a pin engages and the firing pin moves against the cap. The flash from the cap then detonates the bomb and this mechanical fuse guarantees the bomb will detonate irrespective of angle of landing or if the rest of the fusing system failed. Our fuse is correctly marked on the ring pull retainer 80A and much of the original field grey paint is in place with a little rust on the screw cap. In view of the fusing system detailed above very few of these survive today and even fewer in the condition as here. Measures 3" high x 2.25" diameter. (8 cm x6 cm)