A particularly nice British travel or picnic corkscrew by James Heeley, dating from 1924, combining a corkscrew and bottle opener in a compact design with its original protective metal sheath.

The cast metal handle incorporates a large opening designed for removing crown bottle caps, together with a smaller circular opening below. The corkscrew has a strong steel spiral and a tubular metal sheath which slips over it when not in use, making it practical for carrying in a pocket, travelling case or picnic hamper.

The handle is marked JH & S Ltd for James Heeley & Sons Ltd and REGD No 702970. This British registered design dates from 1924, giving the piece a particularly useful and precise attribution. James Heeley & Sons were well known for producing ingenious patented and registered corkscrew designs and related barware.

It is in good vintage condition with some small surface marks, scratches and age-related wear to the plated metal, as shown in the photographs. The spiral remains complete and the removable protective sheath fits correctly.

Size: approximately 11.4 cm long x 3.5 cm wide (4.5” x 1.4”)

An interesting and identifiable example that should appeal particularly to collectors of vintage corkscrews, British barware and early picnic accessories.

This item will be carefully packed and posted via Royal Mail Tracked 48.

I aim to get your items to you as quickly as I can. I try to send everything the next working day. All items will be very carefully packaged and will be sent tracked for your peace of mind.

Please study the photographs as they form part of the description. Feel free to ask any questions – I’m always happy to help. Any stand used in the photography is not included in the sale.

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Please note, due to some questionable claims for returns, all items are carefully wrapped and packaged. If, in the unlikely event, they arrive in less than perfect condition, please provide three photographs: one showing the damage to the item, one of the outside of the packaging, and one image of the inside of the package where both the packaging and postage label are clearly visible and readable.

Please forward these photographs to me so I can instigate a claim with the carrier. If I do not receive this evidence of damage in transit, it may delay or prevent a refund.

Thanks for looking.