Emsa Design Rostfrei 18/8 Slotted Spatula/Skimmer
Flatware (Serving Piece / Kitchen Tool) · Emsa (Emsa GmbH), a German manufacturer originally founded in 1949, renowned for practical, modern household goods and kitchenware.
Pattern: Modernist Utility Series; specific pattern is un-named, part of the 'emsa Design' line, likely produced during the late 20th century.
Type
Flatware (Serving Piece / Kitchen Tool)
Maker
Emsa (Emsa GmbH), a German manufacturer originally founded in 1949, renowned for practical, modern household goods and kitchenware.
Material
Stainless Steel (chromium-nickel alloy) marked 18/8. Contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is not silver or silver plate.
Dimensions
Estimated length 25-30 cm (10-12 inches); head width approx 8 cm. Weight estimated at 80-120 grams.
Description
A utilitarian modern skimmer spoon featuring a large oval head with thirteen vertical drainage slots. The design is sleek and transitionless, characteristic of Emsa's focus on functional kitchen ergonomics.
Key Features
Industrial 'emsa Design' branding; the use of 18/8 stainless steel instead of precious metals; distinctive oval-oblong slotted head.
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel (chromium-nickel alloy) marked 18/8. Contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is not silver or silver plate.
Finish & Decoration
Satin brushed surface treatment with vertically slotted piercings in an oval head. Minimalist Modernist style with no ornamental engraving or chasing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'emsa Design · rostfrei 18/8' on the handle neck. 'Rostfrei' is German for 'rust-free' (stainless). '18/8' indicates the grade of steel.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a single sheet of stainless steel. Die-cut slots and cold-formed bowl. Industrial mass-production.
Functional Features
Slotted drainage head for lifting food from liquids; ergonomic flared neck; potential for a plastic or composite handle attachment.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat steel tang likely intended for a press-fit plastic or melamine handle (fragmentary white material visible at the base).
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial grade; clean die-cuts and smooth edges indicate good quality control despite being machine-made.
Authentication Indicators
The 'rostfrei' stamp and '18/8' indicator are conclusive evidence that this is base-metal stainless steel and not silver. The logo matches known Emsa branding.
Origin & Manufacturing
Germany (West Germany or Unified Germany), likely manufactured in Emsdetten.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (late 20th century). Reflects post-war German functionalist design principles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1990 based on the typeface of the logo and the material composition.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of design in the late 20th century where high-quality European engineering was applied to everyday household utensils.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface residue/grease, scratches consistent with heavy kitchen use, and the primary ergonomic handle appears to be missing or damaged at the terminal.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. Minimal collector value due to the common material and damaged handle.
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe. If surface staining occurs, a standard stainless steel cleaner or soft scrub with vinegar and baking soda will restore the finish.
Similar Pieces
WMF Cromargan serving pieces; Alessi stainless steel tools. Unlike the Alessi pieces, this is a mass-market utilitarian item.
Interesting Facts
Emsa became famous for the 'Senator' vacuum flask and bright plastic kitchenware, often winning the Red Dot Design Award.