Fine example of the Cutler's art

[PA Knives]

I wanted to post some photos of a knife that to me is an outstanding example of the abilities of the cutler's at the turn of century to produce some amazing knives. Please look closely at the photos of this Graef & Schmidt knife. It was made in Germany, although not stamped that. "if you don't know about the country stamp on a tang, take the time to learn as this is a good tool to know". A number of things about this knife tell me it was made in Germany without even looking for a stamp. Enough about that for now

The spring system in this knife is very intricate and complicated in comparison to the simple single spring snap, walk and talk we see on common pocket knives today. Notice the location of the tools and how the springs work both ways in certain instances. This knife still has good walk and talk on nearly every tool. Look closely at the tools and the uniquely and strategically placed nail nicks, along with the handle cut outs for easier access to the nail nicks. That hook has a slight nick in it that is perfectly placed. The array of tools in this knife is amazing, particularly the manner in which they fit to so well into the handle.That needle point tool, the nail file/cleaner is awesome and the scissors still function well. Look at the milled liners and Tortoise shell handles. The glove hook (no that isn't a button hook for shoes) is typical of the Victorian era ladies knife. Now look at this photos closely and imagine the time it took to complete and without the fancy machines we have today. The Cutler truly was and artist. Be sure to look at my next post in this thread, as there is still one little surprise yet to be known about this gem. Click on the photos to enlarge them for a closer look

[PA Knives]

OK, the neatest thing about this knife is that it is ONLY TWO INCHES long. Show me a company today that could create something this fine!!!!!!!! When my freind brought this to me to move for him, I was amazed at the complexity and function of this vintage knife. I just had to share it with my friends here on the forum. In 40 years of collecting I still get a thrill out of a finely crafted knife. I am sure some of you do also.

[biglmbass]

Very nice.

[Forensic Jim]

Absolutely beautiful knife David. Tortoise shell handles are something you don't see often.

[Knife Nut]

The expertise of the old master cutlers is something to behold. I love picking up a 100 year old knife and looking at the fit, finish, and how all things line up in a symmetrical intricate manner.
This is why I collect vintage knives and not the "newfangled" stuff.

Paul

[FRJ]

That is a beautiful knife, David. The old cutlers art always speaks to me, and although some of it goes over my head, I am still trying to learn. I always appreciate the art and craftsmanship of old knives.

I would like to suggest a book of pictures and history of some of the finest knives ever made.
Sheffield exhibition knives: Joseph Rodgers, George Wostenholm and John Blyde/Greenhough and others.

I have to return my copy to the library. Maybe some day I will buy the $90.00 book.

[Dave O]

That is very spectacular and the exact thing that attracted me to collecting. I have one at home I will try to display. it is unmarked and I have shown it before on this forum, but it should be shown here. I think it is a Horsemans knife

[knife7knut]

Nice one David! Kind of unusual to see it handled in tortoise;usually they are either pearl or rarely horn and sometimes silver or gold.I have an I*XL with gold covers.

The craftsmanship that went into these knives is nothing short of amazing.I cannot imagine the amount of time and patience it took to fit all those blades into a coherent unit.

I have several examples of these knives with blades ranging from 5 to 14 tools.Most are made in Germany(I have several by Adolph Kastor) and the longest of these is about 3 inches.The larger ones usually have a pair of tweezers and a toothpick(made of tortoise shell)inserted in the end of the knife.A couple came with chamois pouches that I believe are original to the knives.I have one unmarked one with horn scales.

Here's a few;not in the greatest of condition but still noteworthy. Enjoy.

[knife7knut]

Here is a W.H.Morley multiblade and an unmarked one with horn scales.

[PA Knives]

Those are amazing to look at. I can't imagine the time it took to make them. Nice examples of Cutlery talent. Thanks for posting them. AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[smiling-knife]

This is a little one to add. Hadfield's Patent Steel Circa 1890s s-k