Brian, Didier Laine was a printer/editor, hence his privileged position to produce these illustrated books. He was also a talented drawer: all drawings in the book are by his own hand. It was difficult to surprise him; once I asked him what the next item on his shopping list was. He answered: "What could I still wish for...". And still, not long before he passed away, he acquired a fantastic helmet, a pristine Pickelhaube for a Mecklemburg general. I don't know how many of you have just even seen one for real, let alone own one... I remember the day when I visited him and he put it in my hands. He was so proud. The crowning of his collector career. I also remember whom he purchased it from...
As Steve pointed out, he was from the same generation as these legendary collectors: Preis, Hartmann (and Steve himself!), and some others in Europe, who probably acquired exceptional helmets at reasonable prices in those days.
(I have added some details in a pm, Brian).
