Antique 1930s Gold-Rimmed Cable Glasses in Original Balfour Irvine & Webster Hamilton Leather Case

Step back in time with this incredibly charming piece of local Waikato history.

​This genuine set of antique c. 1930s-1940s spectacles features classic round, gold-filled wire rims and flexible "cable temples" designed to hug the ears comfortably. They sit perfectly inside their original, heavily-aged leather-clad steel case.

​The interior of the case reveals a luxurious chocolate-brown velvet lining, crisply stamped in gold lettering with:

“Balfour Irvine & Webster Ltd., Victoria Street, Hamilton.”

​Over the decades, the exterior of the case has beautifully weathered. The outer dyed leather has worn away to leave behind a gorgeous, naked pigskin grain with a deep caramel patina, while the exposed steel has aged with a wonderful rustic, industrial character.

​Perfect as a tactile styling prop for a bookshelf, desk, or flat-lay photography, this is a beautiful, moody slice of local Hamilton heritage.

​Era: Circa 1930s – 1940s

​Condition: Beautifully weathered antique condition. Frame structure is sound, hinges work perfectly, and the case clasps shut tightly. The case shows heavy, authentic age wear, rust, and rubbing to the exterior leather, which only adds to its rustic, "dark academia" charm.