Sir JAMES MARTIN

DEC & JAN   ~  *SIGNATURE OF THE MONTH*

There are some aviation signatures that are very sought after by collectors
from all over the world, from pioneer pilots and designers to aces and astronauts. 

Therefore, each calendar month, Spitfire Books is offering an interesting signature for sale
and invites collectors to submit a ‘best offer’ during the month by email or telephone

A 25th Anniversary of the First Live Ejection Cover, July 1971, signed by

Sir James Martin CBE FRAeS

(1893-1981)

Limited edition cover in Fine condition which was flown in an experimental Meteor and was ejected in a Martin-Baker seat

Sir James Martin (1893–1981), an Irish immigrant and innovative engineer, began producing aircraft in 1929. He was always keen to invent and make things with his own hands and through hard work and study was an accomplished engineer even in his teens.  It was whilst producing the MB1 that Sir James’ friendship with Capt Valentine Baker was established, giving birth to Martin-Baker Aircraft Company Ltd. Capt Baker’s flying experience and skill was of great importance in the development and flight-testing of the company’s prototypes. 

In 1942, during a test flight of the Martin-Baker MB3, Capt. Baker was killed. The engine seized and he was forced to make an emergency landing, the wing tip struck a tree stump, causing the aircraft to cartwheel. His death greatly affected Sir James, who dedicated the rest of his life, and the future of their company, towards pilot safety. The result was the development of the Martin-Baker ejection seat which has to date saved around 7700 lives.

Martin was a complex man who was both proud and humble, intolerant and immensely patient, shy yet outspoken and he battled throughout his life against bureaucracy and government interference in his work. He was one of the most remarkable British aviation designers and engineers and his is a scarce autograph.