Lucky Wood Sugar B.P. Pattern Stainless Steel Dinner Fork
Flatware (Dinner Fork) · Lucky Wood (Kobayashi Industrial Co., Ltd.), a reputable Japanese manufacturer founded in 1868, known for mass-market and high-quality stainless steel flatware.
Pattern: Sugar B.P. Pattern, featuring a simple teardrop handle with a tonal double-border edge, likely introduced in the late 20th century.
Type
Flatware (Dinner Fork)
Maker
Lucky Wood (Kobayashi Industrial Co., Ltd.), a reputable Japanese manufacturer founded in 1868, known for mass-market and high-quality stainless steel flatware.
Material
Stainless Steel (likely 18/0 or 18/8 grade); contains no silver content. It is a base metal alloy resistant to corrosion.
Dimensions
Standard dinner fork size, approximately 7.5 to 8 inches in length; weight estimated between 40-60 grams.
Description
A utilitarian and modern stainless steel dinner fork featuring the Sugar B.P. pattern by Lucky Wood. The piece exemplifies mid-to-late 20th-century functional design, prioritizing durability and dishwasher safety over the ornate hand-craftsmanship of silver items. The handle is characterized by its simple rounded end and subtle bordering.
Key Features
Distinguished by the specific 'Lucky Wood' crown logo and the 'Sugar B.P.' pattern stamp; notable for its lack of precious metal content and high-durability finish.
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel (likely 18/0 or 18/8 grade); contains no silver content. It is a base metal alloy resistant to corrosion.
Finish & Decoration
Satin or brushed finish on the tines and handle; minimalist contemporary decoration with a recessed outline following the perimeter of the handle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped on the back of the handle: 'STAINLESS STEEL', the 'LUCKY WOOD' brand name, a crown logo, and 'SUGAR B.P.'
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a single sheet of stainless steel; die-struck design and industrial automated finishing.
Functional Features
Four-tine design for general dining; durable one-piece construction with no mechanical parts or removable elements.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid stainless steel handle integrated with the head; ergonomic teardrop shape with a flat profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine-grade quality; uniform symmetry and clean edges typical of high-volume Japanese die-striking processes.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the 'STAINLESS STEEL' stamp is the primary indicator that this is not silver. The crisp, machine-stamped lettering is consistent with industrial Japanese production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Japan (Tsubame-Sanjo region), a world-famous hub for stainless steel cutlery manufacturing and metalworking traditions.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary (late 20th century to present); reflects the mass-production aesthetic of functionalist kitchenware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–2010 based on the stamping font, logo style, and material choice.
Cultural Significance
Represents the global shift from household silver/silverplate to stainless steel in the 20th century for everyday dining due to ease of maintenance.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; shows visible surface scratches consistent with use ('pitting' or 'scuffing'), minor water spots, but no structural damage or bending.
Value Estimate
$2 - $8 USD per replacement piece on secondary markets like eBay or Replacements, Ltd.
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe; can be cleaned with standard dish soap. To maintain the satin look, avoid abrasive pads; no silver polish is required or effective.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with silverplated flatware from Oneida or Gorham; however, the 'Stainless' stamp and lighter weight distinguish it from electroplated nickel silver (EPNS).
Interesting Facts
Lucky Wood was the first company in Japan to produce stainless steel flatware and has won numerous 'Good Design' awards for its minimalist patterns.