Tournus France 18-10 Stainless Steel Lined Copper Saucepan
Hollowware (Cookware) · Tournus (Manufacture de Tournus), a historic French manufacturer founded in 1910 in Burgundy, specialized in professional culinary equipment.
Pattern: Standard Professional Line, featuring bimetal construction for superior heat conductivity.
Type
Hollowware (Cookware)
Maker
Tournus (Manufacture de Tournus), a historic French manufacturer founded in 1910 in Burgundy, specialized in professional culinary equipment.
Material
Copper exterior with 18/10 Stainless Steel lining; note that this item is not silver, but a culinary copper-bottomed vessel.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 16-20 cm based on standard professional ratios; heavy gauge construction typical for French copperware.
Description
A high-performance French culinary saucepan produced by the storied Tournus factory. This piece utilizes copper for rapid heat distribution and stainless steel for a durable, non-reactive cooking surface. It represents the transition of professional chef-grade tools into the high-end domestic kitchen.
Key Features
Castle logo stamp; 18-10 stainless alloy; heavy-duty thick walls; French manufacturing origin.
Material & Composition
Copper exterior with 18/10 Stainless Steel lining; note that this item is not silver, but a culinary copper-bottomed vessel.
Finish & Decoration
Brushed metal interior finish with concentric circular scratching; simple, high-utility industrial polish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with the Tournus castle logo, the word 'TOURNUS', 'MADE IN FRANCE', and the alloy indicator '18-10'.
Construction Details
Spun or pressed bimetal construction; the copper and stainless layers are bonded through heat and pressure.
Functional Features
Flat base for induction compatibility (depending on magnetic core) or gas; durable non-reactive stainless steel interior.
Handle & Grip Details
Typically features a cast iron or heavy brass long handle (unseen in photo) secured with heavy-duty rivets.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed with precision tolerances; the bonding between the copper and steel is seamless, showing high industrial manufacturing quality.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep mechanical stamping of the Tournus trademark; wear patterns consistent with a frequently used kitchen tool.
Origin & Manufacturing
Tournus, Burgundy, France; manufactured in a town renowned for high-quality metalworking and culinary history.
Era & Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century Modern; specifically the era of professional grade home cookware popularity.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the style of the stamp and the '18-10' stainless steel notation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gourmet Revolution' of the late 20th century where French techniques and tools became the global gold standard for home cooks.
Condition Notes
Good used condition. Surface shows significant 'swirl' scratching from abrasive cleaning (likely steel wool or scouring pads). Minimal oxidation on copper visible.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD depending on size and handle material; Tournus is respected but often valued slightly below Mauviel.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water; use copper polish (like Wright's) on the exterior to restore luster; avoid abrasive pads on the interior to prevent deepening scratches.
Similar Pieces
Mauviel M'Heritage (often thicker copper), Matfer Bourgeat (professional unpolished finish), Falk Culinair.
Interesting Facts
The Tournus factory was once one of the largest employers in its region and helped standardize stainless steel use in French hospitals and restaurants.