RARE TYPE 2 (1873) MILLERS PATENT MODEL 42 GUNMETAL COMBO PLANE
Item History and Pricing
Arguablythe Stanley Miller's Patent combination plow planes are the mostoutstanding examples of American hand-tool industrial design. Theyepitomize the marriage of function and design, and achieve a levelof artistic casting not to be replicated in any other woodworkingplane.Miller'sPatent combination planes were manufactured in both cast iron (#41and #43) and gunmetal (#42 and #44)--the distinction in models being the presence or absence of a fillester bed. The gunmetal examples are ...byfar the most difficult to find.Althoughcomplete and proper examples of the model #42 gunmetal w/fillesterare scarce, this one is down-right rare. It is a type 2, which wasmanufactured for only one year, 1873. Thetype 2 gunmetal models utilized a composite of 83% copper and 17% tinwhich resulted in a deep, almost copper color to the castings. Thiscomposition was soon changed resulting in a more muted coloring seenon all other types. This example has the the early copper-ishcoloring. Thetype 2 is also characterized by still having the type 1 two piecefence screws, round headed cutter lock screw and depth gauge nut withbead around the threaded hole---all present on this example. The totehas the long tips at both the top and bottom. The tote which wasmarked “Millers Patent June 28, 1870” has been worn smoothexcept for a couple of letters. The tote is held by a single pin,unlike the two pins used on the type 1. The fence as a two line logowhich is probably an change-over feature also found on the type 3's.Thewrap-around fence, quite susceptible to cracks, is perfect. Thefillester bed, frequently missing, is similarly in great shape with anear full length blade. The knurling on all screws is without damage,noting normal wear. The tote is also in good shape, with the fulllength long tip although a chip along the outer edge. Themodel 42 came with its gunmetal wrap-around fence but not an exteriorstraight fence. These could be purchased separately. This examplehas the straight outer fence, also presenting with the proper 2 piecefence screws.Justan incredible example of a rare plane. It would grace anycollection!Internationalshipping to all countries except Russia. Please contact us forshipping costs prior to bid.
