About this Piece
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IDENTIFICATION
This is a vintage V-cutter cigar cutter from the mid-to-late twentieth century, featuring a push-button mechanical activation system. The piece combines marbleized resin composite construction with brass and golden-toned metal components, representing the industrial design innovation of the post-war smoking accessory market.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
V-cut cigar cutters emerged as a preferred alternative to straight guillotine cuts during the mid-twentieth century. The mechanism gained favor among tobacco enthusiasts for its ability to create a precise cat's-eye opening that optimizes draw characteristics while preserving wrapper integrity. This particular example reflects an era when manufacturers experimented with composite materials to achieve aesthetic luxury while maintaining mechanical durability. Push-button activation systems became standard in premium pocket accessories during the 1950s-1970s, representing a shift toward mechanical sophistication in smoking tools.
GRADING AND MARKS
- Construction: Marbleized black polymer composite body with brown and tortoiseshell-pattern swirls
- Metal hardware: Brass and golden-toned steel components
- Cutting mechanism: Hardened steel blades configured for V-cut profile
- Activation: Center-mounted push-button mechanism
- Manufacturer: To be confirmed
- Country of origin: To be confirmed
- Patent era markings: To be confirmed through inspection
SHAPE ANALYSIS
The cutter employs a compact pocket-size form factor measuring approximately 3 to 4 inches in length. The marbleized body tapers toward the cutting head, with the push-button centered on the upper surface. The V-cut blade configuration creates the signature cat's-eye opening, distinguishing this from standard guillotine-style cutters.
MATERIAL AND FINISH
The body showcases a dense polymer composite finished to replicate natural marble or tortoiseshell aesthetics. The dark base material features organic-appearing swirls and color variation. The metal chassis and blade components display a warm golden or brass tone, creating visual and tactile contrast with the composite body. The finish demonstrates the mid-century preference for combining warm polymers with precious-metal-toned hardware.
CONDITION REPORT
Overall condition: Very good to excellent for age. The mechanism requires functional assessment. The resin body shows no major cracks or deep chips, with minor surface wear consistent with vintage pocket use. The blade edges require evaluation for sharpness and alignment. No major repairs apparent. Professional restoration of cutting edges may enhance functionality.
DIMENSIONS
- Total length: Approximately 3.5 to 4 inches (to be confirmed)
- Width at widest point: Approximately 1.25 inches (to be confirmed)
- Height of cutting head: Approximately 0.75 inches (to be confirmed)
- Weight: To be confirmed
- Blade configuration: V-cut (cat's eye profile)
This smoking accessory represents the mechanical artistry and material innovation of mid-twentieth-century design. Ships from Faridunhill estate archive with complete documentation. Worldwide shipping available. Professional sanitation completed.
SKU: SKU-287