M42 Canteen – Deutsche Emailwarenfabrik (DEF) – Schindler
Markings: none
Maker: Deutsche Emailwarenfabrik (DEF) – Oskar Schindler
Year: 1943
Strap: One piece construction black leather
Flask: Blue enameled steel, 0.8 liter
Cup: Blue enamel steel cup
Cover: Felt
Other notes: Messkits and canteens enameled in these colours are attributed to be made by the Deutsche Emailwarenfabrik (DEF) ran by Oskar Schindler. Messkits and canteens, unmarked, in these specific colours have been found in the old factory storage of the former DEF. There are several other makers of enameled steel canteens and messkits but they all carry different characteristic features such as markings or specific colours. No other maker utilizes these light gray and blue colours and lacks markings. The light blue “wash” on top of the enamel is one of the typical features.
