Watts Champagne Pattern

[smiling-knife]

Hi, this is a variation of John Watts 1892 champagne pattern. It has nippers for cutting champagne wires in the days before they became twist-off. The arm of the nipper is released by pushing it down slightly and sliding the button back. It has a crown cap opener so this one is early 1900s I believe. The original pattern did not have the opener. As far as I can figure, 'Platinoid' was a fancy marketing term for nickel. I hope it is of interest.

 

[cj65]

I like the blade on that one. It is a very interesting piece. Thanks for posting such a great description with facts.

 

[comoha]

That is very cool. Seems to be in great shape for its age.
Thanks for sharing.

 

[zerogee]

Gotta love the way they impressed the PLA TIN OID to create a fake silver stamp at first glance. Ah, slick marketdroids *cough*con men*cough* are nothing new, unfortunately.

Nice how they integrated the cap lifter and nipper handle lockdown/release together.

 

[KnifeHead]

Ohyeah...very clever tool, and I think the PLA TIN OID stamping is clever as well. Makes you wonder if they caught some heat over that little move.

Always love your posts, Steve. Thanks for sharing.

 

[waynorth]

Wonder if they used TIN in the alloy??
Great piece, Steve.
What Kerry said! You are one of the great posters here!!