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Vintage 1970s British Western Riding Spurs Chrome Hand-Tooled Leather Straps

Overview

Designer: Traditional British Saddler & Tack Artisan
Brand: Unbranded
Manufacturer: United Kingdom Metalware & Leather Foundry
Place of Origin: United Kingdom
Style: Western Americana Revival / British Equestrian Tack
Design Era: Late 20th Century (c. 1970s)
Material: Heavy-Gauge Chromed Steel Yokes, Cast Star Rowels & Hand-Tooled Full-Grain Steerhide Leather
Set Includes: Matched Pair of Spurs with Original Double-Sided Stationary Hand-Tooled Leather Straps
Condition: Superb Vintage Condition
Size: Standard Adult Boot Fit. The inner heel spread measures precisely 3 inches (7.6 cm). The metal heel band depth stands at 1 inch (2.5 cm). The shank length from the back of the band to the center rowel pin is 1 inch (2.5 cm), with the total extension to the outermost tip of the star wheel reaching 2 inches (5.1 cm). Please check all listing gallery images to view these exact dimensions.

Dating & Historical Context

Dating: This specialized pair dates to the 1970s. The unique configuration of the double-strap leather assembly combined with the high-shine industrial chrome finish is an iconic signature of the 1970s Western riding and rodeo revival boom that captured the imagination of UK equestrian clubs.
Historical Note: While most double-strap stationary spurs originated in North America for bull riding, the 1970s saw a massive surge of interest in Western riding styles across the UK. British leather workshops and tack manufacturers stepped in to meet this demand, producing high-quality, rugged alternatives to imported US gear. This pair showcases genuine British leather craftsmanship, featuring entirely hand-tooled patterns rather than mass-produced machine stamping. This rare UK-made pair bridges authentic transatlantic cowboy functionality with classic British artisan leatherwork, making them a fantastic crossover piece for both social history collectors and active country-and-western reenactors.

Description

A masterclass in specialized equestrian utility, this matched pair of vintage 1970s British-made spurs showcases incredible mechanical strength and authentic heritage. The heavy-gauge steel bands are heavily chrome-plated to a high mirror shine, branching into a straight, reinforced dual-tine shank that firmly encases a classic rotating star rowel.

Identification & Design Features:

Artisan Hand-Tooled Straps: The thick, full-grain tan leather features crisp, hand-tooled basketweave borders and accent lines. Each impression shows the unique, deep character that can only be achieved by a master leather craftsman using manual hand-stamps and swivels.
Rodeo Double-Strap Engineering: Fitted with a robust tan saddle-leather strap layout, featuring wide, teardrop-shaped button pads designed to distribute pressure across the boot leather during heavy action.
Solid-Set Hardware: Heavy-duty nickel-plated roller buckles and structural steel rivets keep the leather bands securely locked to the inner and outer yoke buttons.

Condition Report

This pair is in superb vintage condition, showing excellent care and outstanding structural integrity. The mirror-finish chrome plating on both steel bodies remains incredibly bright, with only light surface scuffing and no significant pitting or lifting. The thick-gauge tan leather straps remain completely pliable and strong, free from dry-rotting, structural cracking, or major grease staining. The hand-tooled impressions remain remarkably deep, crisp, and clear. Both star rowels rotate freely on their pins, the roller buckles thread smoothly, and all attachment rivets are perfectly firm.

Shipping & Logistics

Domestic Shipping: FREE UK TRACKED DELIVERY.
International Shipping: We proudly ship worldwide via the eBay Global Shipping Programme (GSP).
Packaging: Securely wrapped in high-density bubble cushioning to safeguard the chrome finish and preserve the shape of the specialized double-strap leather layers during transit.
Dispatch: Ships within 1 business day.