Several years ago, I picked up an oversized Walker bell corkscrew. And, as I was desirous of still another corkscrew, I made a deal with a fellow collector, and traded it away.
This was early on in my collecting, and I didn’t know how scarce the large belled Walker or Williamson really was. And, while I was happy with what I received in trade, I had a bit of trader’s remorse.
And, over the years, I have only seen one or two others.
One happened to make my best 6 of 2010, and as it was acquired through yet another trade (this time with Tommy).
Knowing that he (slightly) regretted trading it away, even though he got a nice corkscrew in return, I was quite pleased for him when he managed to pick up an oversized Walker–which made his best 6 of last year.
I would love to add another oversize Walker to the collection, so if you have one please feel free to send pictures!
That said, the story goes, that a couple of years ago in Canada, Tommy was shown yet another large bell corkscrew. Covered in paint, with a metal handle, he passed on it. But, after the same collector visited him in Chicago recently; a deal was struck. And, that corkscrew arrived two days ago.
An interesting piece that has a bell very similar to the oversized Williamson. But, with that handle, could it be a shop project gone awry?
One might think yes, but that bell looks right. Perhaps they just added a metal handle…
Or, perhaps not.
Now, I will preface this next part by explaining, that until a few hours ago, I didn’t know Tommy had this corkscrew And, he only sent pictures after, I sent him a picture of my latest acquisition.
It looks to be the same corkscrew!
Available for a smokin’ Buy it Now of 35 dollars, the seller described the piece as “Silver painted metal corkscrew–really heavy duty. Appears to be someone’s shop project and not a production piece. No markings.”
After comparing it with Tommy’s, the question of shop project? I would say, probably not.
Is it a production piece? Well, now we know they produced at least two of them!
(And, Tommy, it is time to break out the paint remover!)
Do any of you have a similar corkscrew? I would love to see pictures!
josef@vintagecorkscrews.com corkscrewing around 