Where's the line between tool and jewel?

I have a 10.5" custom carbon steel chef knife, built by a master smith (reluctantly), with an ironwood handle. It is one of 4 that he has built, and one of two that bear his master smith mark. It is a thing of beauty, and I doubt he will make any more. He said he was offered $800 for it when he showed it at a show last year; by three people.

I use that knife every day. I had him build it for use, hard use, and had to convince him to make it for me. It was built to my specs and fits my hand beautifully. Every time I take it out and steel it for the coming task, I smile and marvel at the jewel in my hand. It's not fancy, and it's not greatly embellished, but it is extremely well made and fitted. It is developing a beautiful patina in the blade, though some would frown on that...I love the look.

My tool is a jewel (no puns intended...but I do love saying that, and likely have always wanted to use that line with a straight face).
 
I think Vassili brings out a point about price - if it's beyond its percieved utility value, it requires an appreciation about its manufacture, maker, materials, and/or rarity to push it higher.

Buck can make a Mayo TNT with the same materials as a Sebenza Classic. Many would point out the CRK has tight fit and finish specifications that justify the higher price.

And others would take the Buck Mayo, claiming the Sebenza is overpriced. What is hard to see is the perceptions of the buyers and what they value - intrinsic issues like reputation, quantity in production, value recieved for the dollar, etc. It's what makes the decision different for all of us - almost every time.

Right now, I'd prefer the Buck Mayo TNT for value in materials (price), jewel-like aesthetics, and availability. In comparison, the Sebenza comes off like a very good tool, and I already have something else for that job. So, hohum.

Imagine that. And I use to think $29 was high.
 
Ken C. said:
If you use it, it's a tool. If you keep it in the safe and don't touch it, it's a jewel. This goes for any knife. Some people treasure their Benchmades, Spydies, etc. and keep them as collector's items while carrying and using a $600 folder. It works the other way around, too. I guess it has to do with what you choose to collect and what you choose to use. I use eveything I own and nothing sits in a safe.
Click to expand...

There you go. Well said.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top