Image Lot Price Description

1439A
$6,325.00
Revised: 11/29/2011 

Please Note: We maintain that this is a salesman sample base. At the time the salesman attached the toy Gem machine to the top, they have been together since their genesis. It is an outstanding unit.

Correction: It has come to our attention that the American Gem sewing machine mechanism on the top of this table is in actuality a toy made long ago for children. And as such, this is not a salesman sample for a complete American Gem sewing machine. However, we have concluded that while the sewing mechanism on top is a toy, the base is not. The base is most definitely a salesman sample for a well designed full size sewing machine base, which could be raised and put on casters so it could be easily rolled throughout the room or dropped down on its legs and be secured in place. It’s obvious that the seller of the full size bases must have, with a certain amount of effort adapted a toy from the period to this base so it could illustrate how their mechanism would work. Because of its detail, it is far more exacting than what you would see in a toy. The base is unquestionably an old base. This toy was not put on the base recently to make it look like a miniature or salesman sample. The two components have been together from very early on. As such, it is still a salesman sample; it’s just not a salesman sample for the American Gem sewing machine. It is a salesman sample for the base and/or the lifting mechanism. This is unquestionably a rare item and we feel a very beautiful piece of early American industrialization. We are also revising the presale estimate to $2,000-4,000.

SALESMAN SAMPLE AMERICAN GEM SEWING MACHINE. The machine itself is constructed of cast iron and mounted to a wooden table top which is supported by an ornate cast iron treadle base. The machine is enameled in black with painted floral decorations and gilt lettering. The base is also enameled in black with porcelain caster wheels and a foot activated locking mechanism. This piece is in “as found” untouched original condition and still retains what appears to be the original leather drive belt. A true rarity. Considering the dimensions and the craftsmanship of this piece, there is no doubt whatsoever that this was manufactured as a salesman sample and not a child’s sewing machine. PROVENANCE: Originally from a wealthy Baltimore family who accumulated/collected many items before, during, and after The Great Depression. SIZE: 15″ h x 10″ l x 6″ w. CONDITION: Near excellent. 1-11584 (15,000-20,000)


Auction: Advertising, Toy & Doll - Fall 2011
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.