Mid-Century Modern Engine-Turned Sterling Silver Cigarette Case by Walker & Hall
Cigarette Case / Tobacciana Accessory · Walker & Hall, Sheffield. Established in 1845, they were one of the largest and most respected manufacturers of silver and plate in the United Kingdom, holding Royal Warrants.
Pattern: Geometric Engine-Turned Diamond Point Pattern, introduced mid-20th century.
Type
Cigarette Case / Tobacciana Accessory
Maker
Walker & Hall, Sheffield. Established in 1845, they were one of the largest and most respected manufacturers of silver and plate in the United Kingdom, holding Royal Warrants.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Total estimated weight approximately 120-150 grams depending on internal lining.
Dimensions
Standard pocket size: approximately 4.5 x 3.25 inches. Weight typically ranges between 4 and 6 troy ounces.
Description
An elegant example of masculine mid-century silversmithing, this case balances industrial precision with luxury. The engine-turned surface minimizes the appearance of fingerprints and scratches, making it a practical daily accessory for the mid-century gentleman. The vertical fluted bands add a sense of architectural height to the small object.
Key Features
Uniformity of the diamond-point engine turning, precise alignment of the vertical bands, and the high-polish finish of the internal silver surface.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Total estimated weight approximately 120-150 grams depending on internal lining.
Finish & Decoration
Engine-turned (guilloché) surface featuring a consistent diamond or 'barleycorn' pattern. The case features vertical raised pillowed bands that provide structural rigidity and a Art Deco-influenced aesthetic contrast to the textured finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely positioned on the interior lip or inside the case covers. Expected marks: W&H (Maker), Lion Passant (British Sterling), Crown (Sheffield), and a date letter (likely 1940s-1960s).
Construction Details
Machine-pressed sterling silver sheets with engine-turned engraving; hand-assembled hinge mechanism and bezel-fit closures.
Functional Features
Single-push thumb release button, internal spring-loaded retaining arm (or elastic band loops), and a high-tension hinge for crisp opening and closing.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated thumb piece/latch; smooth polished silver edges contrasting with the grippy engine-turned center panels.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent precision. The engine-turned lines are perfectly parallel and perpendicular, indicating a well-maintained lathe and skilled operator. The vertical bands are perfectly symmetrical.
Authentication Indicators
The depth and regularity of the engine turning suggest a high-quality machine lathe rather than a modern molded imitation. The patina in the recesses of the pattern is consistent with naturally aged sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Sheffield, England. Built using traditional British industrial silver-smithing techniques involving heavy-duty lathes for engine turning.
Era & Period
Late Art Deco / Mid-Century Modern (c. 1935-1955). This style emphasized geometric precision and tactile textures over floral ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1952 based on the specific density of the engine turning and the profile of the raised vertical bands.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of peak social etiquette in the mid-20th century; the silver cigarette case was a standard gift for military commissions, weddings, and corporate retirements.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows light micro-scratching consistent with pocket wear. The texture remains crisp without significant 'smoothing' from over-polishing. No major dings or dents visible in the primary panels.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is driven by the silver weight, the reputation of Walker & Hall, and the crispness of the engine turning.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft horsehair brush to remove dust from the texture. Use a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) only when heavily tarnished to avoid filling the fine engine-turned lines with dried paste.
Similar Pieces
Dunhill Engine-Turned Cases (often more expensive), Mappin & Webb Fluted Cases, or Art Deco cases by American makers like Elgin American (often silver-plate rather than sterling).
Interesting Facts
Engine turning reached its peak popularity in the 1940s because it allowed silver to maintain a bright, shimmering appearance even when handled frequently, as the texture hid the oils from the skin.