SILVER-LUG Blog
[Brand Introduction] Mappin & Webb
In 1897, it was certified as a "royal purveyor" by Queen Victoria, and Mappin & Webb's craftsmen are still appointed as crown jewelers (craftsmen who create crowns) for the British royal family.
[Brand Introduction] JWBenson
While many British watch manufacturers had small-scale workshops, by the end of the 19th century, large-scale factories were manufacturing a wide range of watches from mid-range to high-end models.
Stamping non-British silverware
In a previous article, we covered British silver hallmarks in detail.
Silver products from other countries also have a hallmark system and are stamped.
There are many cases where there are not as many detailed systems and systems as in the UK, but here are some representative ones.
About pocket watch hands
In another article, I talked about pocket watch dials, but hands are also a very important part of watch design. Moreover, it is the most visible part of a watch because it cannot tell the time, which is the original role of a watch, unless you look at the hands.
Various designs and ingenuity have been devised in consideration of not only the design but also the ease of viewing the time.
British afternoon tea
In Japan, there are drinks called "Gogo-no-Kocha" and chain cafes called "Afternoon Tea" that are popular.
In Britain, which actually leads the world's tea culture, tea is a custom that can be said to be part of life.
About pocket watch dials
The dial of a watch is also called the face. It is an important part that literally becomes the face of the watch.
Here, we will explain the design, material, and decoration of antique pocket watch dials.
Periodization of British Antiques
Period division is a term used to classify antiques according to the year of manufacture. Britain's eras are named after the king who ruled over them.
Since it greatly reflects the background of the era and the tastes of the king at that time, the style changes with each era.
Types of pocket watches and names of parts
Pocket watches are divided into types such as open face and hunter, depending on the shape of the case.
In addition, although the names of each part are basically the same as those of wristwatches, there are also parts that are unique to pocketwatches, such as pendants and lids.
A hallmark of British silverware
Silverware made in England always contains a small stamp called a hallmark.
We will explain the history of British silver hallmarks, explanations of hallmarks, and how to look up hallmarks.
Salva
Among the trays (flat containers with a shallow bottom), only silver ones are called salva.
It was used by upper-class European families to carry cups and plates to the table, and by butlers to carry letters and cards to their masters.
antique walking stick
However, not only in medieval Europe, but also in Japan during the Meiji period, it was once an indispensable item for gentlemen's fashion.
albert chain
Albert chain is a chain used to wear a pocket watch.
It is named after Prince Albert (1819-1861), husband of Queen Victoria of England (1837-1901).
It was developed not only for the practical purpose of attaching a pocket watch to clothing to prevent it from being dropped, but also as an accessory for British gentlemen to be worn stylishly.