Antique Sterling Silver Spectacles in Aluminum Case
$535.00 USD
Step into the Edwardian era with a piece that honors the scholarly silhouettes of the past. Crafted in 1904, a year defined by early modern innovation, these spectacles are a deliberate and sophisticated Georgian Revival design. They capture the romantic, intellectual aesthetic of 18th-century "wig spectacles" but, were engineered with the superior silver-smithing of the early 20th century. Remarkably preserved, these spectacles are not merely a curiosity. The original glass lenses are in perfect condition, offering flawless clarity that makes them fully functional for modern use as unique reading or computer glasses.
Forged from solid sterling silver, the frames feature the ingenious "sliding temple" design: precision-engineered arms that extend for a custom, secure fit. They come in their original Modernist aluminum hardshell case. In 1904, aluminum was a cutting-edge "space-age" material, prized for its durability and feather-light weight.
These antique spectacles were crafted in sterling silver and are fully marked for silver, as well as the maker, Herbert Adams. There are 2 marks on the arms - one being the main or sponsor's mark for the registered silversmith, the other a part mark, used for smaller components. The sleek, industrial aluminum case with its secure mechanical clasp retains its original dark blue velvet lining. Wearable art for dark academia lovers.
Based in the heart of England’s historic Birmingham Jewellery Quarter, Herbert Adams was a registered "smallworker" silversmith at the turn of the 20th century. Unlike the massive industrial silver firms of the era that focused on heavy tea sets and flatware, Adams’ workshop specialized in "Objects of Vertu" - delicate, high-quality personal items meant to be carried and used daily. His work is characterized by a blend of mechanical ingenuity and refined aesthetic. Pieces from the Adams workshop are prized by collectors today for their superior hand-finish.
These spectacles weigh about 20.27g and measure 4.5" from one edge of frame to the other. Each oval eyepiece measures 1.25" wide by 1" high. Each arm is about 6.25" long. Wear commensurate with age and use. The case measures just over 4.25" long by about 1.75" wide. Some scratches on reverse of case and wear commensurate with age and use. Lens strength is +1.75.
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