Battlestar Galactica (1978): Cylon Centurion Helmet Limited Edition Prop Replica

First seen in Battlestar Galactica, the Cylon Centurion Helmet is one of the most striking designs of classic science fiction. 

Worn by the relentless mechanical soldiers of the Cylon Empire, its sweeping red “eye” became an enduring symbol of the series.

The Original Props
Designed by Jean-Pierre Dorléac, with influence from concept work by Ralph McQuarrie, the Centurion’s armor combined classical inspiration with a distinctly futuristic edge.

The original helmets were formed in two halves of thin plastic and electroplated to achieve their reflective finish, with a central seam concealed by mylar tape. Visibility was extremely limited, to small holes drilled in the brow. Combined with stiff armor, this forced actors to move with deliberate, mechanical precision—an accident of design that made the Cylons even more convincingly robotic.

Their iconic scanning “eye”—often referred to as the ‘Larson Scanner’ after series creator Glen A. Larson—used a sequence of small incandescent bulbs to create the signature sweeping effect. Though innovative for its time, the system relied on external power and was both fragile and complex.

The Replica
To create this Limited Edition prop replica featuring screen-accurate lights and sounds, the Factory Entertainment team digitally scanned a surviving original helmet, then meticulously studied archival imagery and production materials to ensure every contour, proportion, and surface detail was faithfully captured and restored.

While the original props were designed to deceive the low-resolution cameras of 1970s television, this replica has been subtly refined to deliver a truly spectacular modern display piece—remaining true to the spirit of the original yet upgraded in every respect.

Enhancements include:
The unsightly central seam and Mylar tape of the original have been digitally removed for a flawless, seamless finish.
The original production relied on traditional electroplating, a process that, while striking, is notoriously difficult to reproduce with consistency and often yields uneven or fragile results. For this replica, that method has been replaced with a state-of-the-art two-part chrome paint system. This modern finish delivers a comparably satisfying finish to electroplating, but with vastly superior durability, uniformity, and longevity.
The small eyeholes have been eliminated for a clean, in-universe aesthetic.
The lightweight plastic of the originals has been replaced with heavyweight, high-grade fiberglass.
1970s incandescent bulb electronics have been replaced with modern LED technology, microchip-controlled to perfectly emulate the original sweeping red-eye effect.
Power is now fully self-contained within the helmet’s interior.
Authentic digital audio, sourced directly from the original production recordings, adds a dramatic layer of realism.
Light and sound effects are operated via an included IR remote control.
A custom padded fabric liner completes the display, providing a premium finish far superior to the utilitarian interiors of the original screen-used props.
Edition size is 300 pieces. Includes a display stand, a numbered metal plaque, plaque stand and certificate of authenticity/prop story booklet.

Product Specifications:
Requires:
Helmet 3 x AA batteries
Remote Control 2 x AAA batteries
(Batteries Included)

Dimensions
Helmet Only —8.5x11x12” (21.5x27x30cm)