Old Champagne Tool

[Smiling-Knife]

This is a nice example of an old champagne knife. R Timmins & Sons was a Brimingham-based tool manufacturer. I think it dates from the mid 1800s. It has a dusting brush, sharp edge at the tip for cutting the cage and longer mid section for prying those stubborn corks. I hope it is of interest. As always, all comments, information or additons will be greatly appreciated.

[dkonopinski]

I've never seen one like that before, Steve. The handle looks to be in much better shape than the blade or brush. It looks original. Do you think it's been renovated?

David

[Smiling-Knife]

Hi David. Thanks very much for your comments. I think it is all original. I agree the handle (rosewood?) is in great condition. From my experience with corkscrews, the brush often deteriorates and replacements are common. This one does not appear to be a replacement. The tip of the blade is blunted and the serrations on the middle portion worn somewhat, but no sign that it was replaced at any point IMO.

[dkonopinski]

Presumably the twisted wire thingy on a modern bubbly bottle is a relatively recent innovation otherwise why would you need to cut the cage?

Having re-read that, it's a question for a champagne forum realy, but with your knowledge of devices for gaining access to booze I thought you might know

David

[Me&Fe]

What an interesting item from a quality old maker.Just the kind of thing i'd buy at an antiques fair!
Thanks for showing.

[Smiling-Knife]

Thanks very much for the comments Me & FE and David. I've not found the definitive answer to your question David, but so far I believe the wire cages became twist-off circa 1920s.

[mito0]

that's a neat little tool, s-k.
it's good that you know what it's purpose was.
so many obscure old tools have had their proper uses forgotten over the ages.
i would never have guessed it was a champagne bottle opener.

[Danzo]

Ooh, I like that and very pleased that you've identified it as a champagne knife S-K. I'd have guessed it to be a slightly odd mushroom knife otherwise.

Danzo

[zorro]

Been looking on the web at some of their products for sale on various auction sites, looks like they were quite prolific.

Do you think they assembled the complete piece and sold it as theirs, or might they have supplied the blade to another manufacturer? Nice piece by the way.

[Smiling-Knife]

Thanks to everyone for your comments

Do you think they assembled the complete piece and sold it as theirs, or might they have supplied the blade to another manufacturer? Nice piece by the way.

I do not know the answer to your question zorro.

[MarcusV]

Ooh, I like that and very pleased that you've identified it as a champagne knife S-K. I'd have guessed it to be a slightly odd mushroom knife otherwise.

Danzo

I was thinking the same thing. I would have put money on it being a 'shroom knife.

Everyday is a school day

[Smiling-Knife]

This is another old champagne tool that may be of interest. It is a wire cutter with brush and cork pry on the handles. This one is marked Evans London Bridge and has the Royal Warrant for William IV 1830-1837. I found information on various cutlers named Evans in The London Knife Book, but none with London Bridge. Any ideas regarding the maker?