I found this Stanley 12-1/2 cabinet scraper on eBay last week. It's in very good shape.
What appears to be a spot of rust just left of the blade (above) is just lighting.
I believe that it has never been actually used. There are no signs that the blade has ever been sharpened or that the edge has been hooked (no burr) but no way to tell if it's the original blade, of course. The japanning appears original to my eye based on the sharpness of the markings on the casting. There are no signs of rusting or pitting anywhere and you can still see the original machining marks on the sides.
The rosewood base is in like new condition except for small marks consistent with sitting around for at least 76 years given they were manufactured between 1928-1943.
The mouth is in great shape too, another sign this scraper has never been used.
I intend to use it, at least some, as I don't run a museum or collect just to be collecting or reselling. I'll probably buy and use a new blade to preserve the original one though.
What appears to be a spot of rust just left of the blade (above) is just lighting.
I believe that it has never been actually used. There are no signs that the blade has ever been sharpened or that the edge has been hooked (no burr) but no way to tell if it's the original blade, of course. The japanning appears original to my eye based on the sharpness of the markings on the casting. There are no signs of rusting or pitting anywhere and you can still see the original machining marks on the sides.
The rosewood base is in like new condition except for small marks consistent with sitting around for at least 76 years given they were manufactured between 1928-1943.
The mouth is in great shape too, another sign this scraper has never been used.
I intend to use it, at least some, as I don't run a museum or collect just to be collecting or reselling. I'll probably buy and use a new blade to preserve the original one though.