JC Higgins Single-Hose Regulator

JC Higgins Single-Hose Regulator – Rare Healthways Vintage Scuba Regulator

Product Overview

The JC Higgins Single-Hose Regulator is a rare and historic piece of vintage diving equipment. Manufactured by Healthways and sold exclusively under the JC Higgins brand (a Sears, Roebuck & Co. private label), this single-hose scuba regulator was one of the earliest regulators marketed to the growing consumer dive industry in the early 1960s.

Due to its limited production and exclusive distribution, this Healthways regulator is now a highly collectible vintage diving artifact sought after by enthusiasts and historical scuba gear collectors.

Key Features & Specifications

Brand: JC Higgins (Sears, Roebuck & Co.)
Manufacturer: Healthways
Production Era: Early 1960s
Regulator Type: Single-hose, unbalanced diaphragm design
Second Stage: Tilt-valve system (common in early Healthways models)
Material: Chrome-plated brass with durable rubber components
Condition: Collectible item, may require servicing for operational use
Historical Significance: One of the few department store-branded scuba regulators ever produced

History & Background

The JC Higgins brand was a well-known Sears trademark covering outdoor and sporting goods, including firearms, bicycles, and scuba gear. While Healthways was already a recognized name in diving equipment, Sears branded and sold their own version of Healthways’ single-hose regulator, making it one of the few department store-exclusive scuba regulators in history.

Healthways introduced their Scubair 1665 model in 1960, followed by the Scuba Star 1664 (1961-1966). These models, known for their tilt-valve second stage and durable construction, served as the foundation for the JC Higgins-branded regulator.

Today, these JC Higgins regulators are difficult to find, making them a must-have for collectors of vintage scuba diving gear.

Why This Regulator is Highly Collectible

The JC Higgins Single-Hose Regulator is one of the rarest single-hose regulators produced in the early 1960s due to:
Limited production – Sold exclusively through Sears, Roebuck & Co.
Unique branding – A Healthways regulator under a JC Higgins private label
Early single-hose technology – A significant development in the transition from double-hose regulators
Highly sought-after vintage dive gear – Ideal for collectors and scuba history enthusiasts

If you’re a collector of vintage diving regulators, Healthways equipment, or rare scuba gear, this piece is an essential addition to your collection.

Condition & Restoration

For Display: Many collectors choose to preserve this regulator in its original condition for historical value.
For Restoration: If intended for demonstration purposes, servicing by a vintage regulator specialist is recommended. Replacement parts such as hoses, diaphragms, and internal components may be required.
For Diving Use: This regulator is NOT recommended for modern diving without professional servicing and testing to ensure safe operation.

Finding Parts & Servicing

Given the rarity of this model, original parts may be difficult to find, but experienced vintage dive gear restorers can often repair and rebuild Healthways regulators using compatible components.

Where to Find a JC Higgins Single-Hose Regulator

Since these regulators were only produced for a short period, finding one in good condition can be challenging. They occasionally appear on:
eBay – Check vintage scuba listings for JC Higgins Healthways Regulator
Vintage Diving Equipment Forums – Such as VintageScubaSupply.com
Scuba Collectors’ Groups – Facebook groups like Historical Diving Society Australia-Pacific
Diving Auctions & Estate Sales – Rare finds may surface at specialty auctions

Final Thoughts

The JC Higgins Single-Hose Regulator by Healthways is a historic relic of early recreational diving and a sought-after collectible. If you’re looking for a rare vintage scuba regulator with a unique Sears branding twist, this is an exceptional find.