Submarine Wheel Coffee Table

Built around an original World War II Gato Class submarine diving plane valve wheel, this custom made coffee table features a unique piece of naval history. The historical artifact was originally located in the control room of the USS Shad, a submarine that saw service in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during the war. Purchased in 1975 from the shipbreaking company that scrapped the vessel, the wheel was brought to my shop by the customer to be repurposed. To learn more about the history of the USS Shad, click here. Follow this link to view these wheels in the control room of the USS Cod, another WWII Gato Class submarine, now a museum ship in Cleveland, OH. Crafted specifically for this project, a custom walnut base perfectly supports the 80 plus pound wheel. Walnut spacers were added to the wheel rim and spokes to evenly support a 3/8 inch thick glass top. For a durable and classic look, the base was finished with several coats of hand rubbed shellac. The glass top measures 34 inches in diameter and the table stands 19 inches high.

If you have an idea for a meaningful custom piece, please email or call. Additional coffee table designs may be viewed here. If you have questions about this design or are interested in a style not shown, feel free to send links or photos so we can begin a conversation centered on your requirements and design ideas.

Click on any photo to open a zoomable slideshow.