Pencil sharpener Industrial - Bakelite Brown Germany
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Dahle model 55 mechanical pencil sharpener, Germany, circa 1950s–1960s, with a brown Bakelite body and metal sharpening mechanism; good vintage condition with minor signs of wear, small base-edge chip, dimensions 105.4 mm depth, 104 mm height, 76.8 mm width, weight 310 g.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Offered is a classic mid-century mechanical pencil sharpener by Dahle, model 55, manufactured in Germany circa 1950s–1960s.
This example features a less common brown Bakelite-style body, giving it a warmer and more distinctive appearance compared to the standard black version. The combination of molded body and solid metal sharpening mechanism reflects the functional and durable design typical of post-war German manufacturing.
The crank handle operates smoothly, and the internal helical cutting mechanism is complete and clearly visible. The sharpener can be disassembled for maintenance, as shown, which highlights its robust engineering.
Today, pieces like this are appreciated both as functional tools and as decorative objects within industrial, mid-century, or vintage office interiors.
Condition
Good vintage condition with signs of use:
Light surface wear and scratches consistent with age
Small chip to the lower edge of the base (see photos)
No cracks affecting structural integrity
Mechanism appears complete and functional
Overall, a well-preserved example with honest wear.
Please refer to the photographs for a complete impression of the condition.
Material: Plastic/Bakelite body with metal mechanism
Notes for Collectors
Dahle sharpeners are known for their reliability and timeless design. The brown variant is less frequently encountered than the black version, making it particularly appealing to collectors of vintage office equipment and mid-century industrial design.
Offered is a classic mid-century mechanical pencil sharpener by Dahle, model 55, manufactured in Germany circa 1950s–1960s.
This example features a less common brown Bakelite-style body, giving it a warmer and more distinctive appearance compared to the standard black version. The combination of molded body and solid metal sharpening mechanism reflects the functional and durable design typical of post-war German manufacturing.
The crank handle operates smoothly, and the internal helical cutting mechanism is complete and clearly visible. The sharpener can be disassembled for maintenance, as shown, which highlights its robust engineering.
Today, pieces like this are appreciated both as functional tools and as decorative objects within industrial, mid-century, or vintage office interiors.
Condition
Good vintage condition with signs of use:
Light surface wear and scratches consistent with age
Small chip to the lower edge of the base (see photos)
No cracks affecting structural integrity
Mechanism appears complete and functional
Overall, a well-preserved example with honest wear.
Please refer to the photographs for a complete impression of the condition.
Material: Plastic/Bakelite body with metal mechanism
Notes for Collectors
Dahle sharpeners are known for their reliability and timeless design. The brown variant is less frequently encountered than the black version, making it particularly appealing to collectors of vintage office equipment and mid-century industrial design.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Weight
310 g
Style
Industrial
Country of Origin
Germany
Material
Bakelite, Metal
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
104 mm
Width
76.8 mm
Depth
105.4 mm
Estimated period
1950-1960
Title additional information
Bakelite Brown Germany
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