Medi double hose regulator #7539

The History of Medi-MLW Diving Equipment in the GDR

The German Democratic Republic (GDR) emerged in 1949 in the Soviet occupation zone of post-World War II Germany. During this time, Leipzig became a center for diving equipment manufacturing under the brand “VEB Medizintechnik Leipzig” (MEDI), later known as MLW.

Pre-War Dominance of Dräger

Before World War II, Dräger in Luebeck dominated Germany’s diving equipment market. However, after the country split into the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and the GDR, both established in 1949, Germany had two separate paths. The GDR had to develop its own diving gear from scratch due to limited access to equipment from other socialist nations.

Manufacturing Diving Gear in Leipzig

Leipzig had a history of precision engineering and medical technology. In 1948, the government merged several companies into “VEB Medical Technology Leipzig,” with Nitzsche AG playing a major role. Johannes Nitzsche founded Nitzsche AG in 1903, which initially produced cinematographs. Anschütz GmbH acquired the company in 1938.

After World War II, Nitzsche AG came under Soviet Military Administration due to its involvement in war-related production. This set the stage for diving equipment manufacturing in Leipzig during the GDR era.

The Evolution of MEDI and MLW

In 1952, the company became VEB Central Medical Precision Optics, using the MEDI brand until 1969. It underwent several changes:

  • 1952-1958: Head Office Precision Optics
  • 1958-1967: VVB Mechanics
  • 1967-1969: VVB Medical, Laboratory, and Weighing Technology

In 1970, the brand changed to MLW, which remained until 1989.

Early Diving Equipment: The MEDI Nixe

MEDI began producing diving equipment in 1954 with the MEDI Nixe, an oxygen rebreather. The Soviet Military Administration pushed for this development, leveraging Germany’s experience in submarine rescue. The Nixe remained in production until 1959.

The Introduction of the MEDI 713 SCUBA Gear

In 1959, MEDI released its first SCUBA gear with a double hose regulator, known as the MEDI 713. This equipment, designed for dives up to 20 meters, was exported to some Eastern Bloc countries. It remained in production until 1965.

Hydromat Series: A GDR Milestone

In 1965, MEDI launched its most successful product, the Hydromat SCUBA rig. This modular system, available with one to three cylinders, featured the two-stage double hose regulator “Hydromat 62004 G01.” In 1970, MEDI introduced the single hose regulator “Hydromat 66.” The Hydromat series was produced until 1974.

Additional Diving Equipment

Besides SCUBA rigs, MEDI and MLW produced cylinder valves, full-face masks, and dry suits like the “Penguin.” These products primarily catered to professional divers.

Decline in Diving Gear Production

By 1974, MLW faced challenges in maintaining diving equipment production. The GDR government preferred to focus on medical and respiratory equipment. Consequently, the production of diving gear stopped, except for the RG-UF/M rebreather, which continued until 1989.

Limited Innovation and Domestic Use

MLW’s diving products could not compete internationally due to outdated technology. Most diving gear produced served only domestic needs in the GDR. Even then, there was a shortage of equipment for training programs, and many divers resorted to making their own gear.

The End of MLW

After the reunification of Germany in 1990, the Treuhand organization dismantled MLW. The remaining diving equipment was scrapped, marking the end of an era for GDR diving gear production.

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