Sargent No. 408 (3 size) Smooth Plane, Rare Brass Insert Lever Cap, c. 1927-1939

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I'm listing a lot of nice tools so please check my other auctions.Here's a rarely seen version of Sargent's small 3-size plane, their model No. 408, with the brass "SARGENT" emblem inset into the nickel-plated cast iron lever cap. According to Dave Heckel's reference book, "Sargent Planes, Identification and Value Guide," this feature appeared on certain Sargent models from 1927 to 1939. This, of course, coincides with the Great Depression (the Great Slump to our friends in the U.K.), a period when sales of all manufactured goods plummeted, which may account for the rarity of these planes today.Sargent was perhaps the principal competitor to Stanley in the metallic bench plane business, with the resources and manufacturing expertise to produce tools of high quality at competitive prices. By the time this miniature smooth plane left the Sargent factory, Stanley had managed to acquire nearly all of its other plane making rivals. No doubt, Sargent's production of private branded planes for Sears was an important factor in the company's continued success.The rare plane offered here is in well-preserved condition for age. The exposed metal surfaces have aged to an attractive dark gray-brown patina and the original machining marks still evident on the sole.The nickel on the lever cap has some evenly-distributed spots, but is otherwise in very nice condition with a mirror shine. The brass SARGENT emblem is in excellent, crisp condition, and though it has darkened a bit, it has thankfully never been buffed or polished.As on nearly all Sargent planes, the finish on the mahogany handle and knob is well crazed with substantial flaking, but the wood itself is in very good condition with just a very slight bruise on the tip on the tote and no splits in the knob.The blade is long and patinated a light gray with only minor age spotting that would clean away easily if desired. It is stamped with the trademark, "SARGENT / NO. 408 / NEW HAVEN, CT U.S.A."The adjustment nut is a little dirty but its knurling is crisp. The plane and frog retain nearly all of their original Japan varnish in glossy condition, with a bubble behind the front knob and a little loss on the edges of the frog.These brass insert planes are especially attractive, but they simply do not show up often. Over the years I've seen only a handful offered for sale in the No. 3 size, and I bought them all. I hate to part with such a truly scarce plane, but a new business venture means I have to let go of my treasures.Low starting bid and no reserve!For more information on Sargent planes, see Roger Smith's seminal reference books, "Patented Transitional and Metallic Planes in America," volumes 1 & 2, and Dave Heckel's "Sargent Planes, Identification and Value Guide." The information in this description comes from these great references, original and reproduction Sargent catalogs in my library, and my own observation and conjecture.I'm happy to answer any questions. Thanks for looking!NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT RELY ON EBAY'S SHIPPING CALCULATOR because it is often wrong. I'll calculate exact shipping and insurance after the auction. I do not charge any handling fees and I pack these fragile items well to survive the hazards of modern shipping. If it is less expensive to your location to use a Flat Rate Box, I will do so. If shipping by weight in a regular box is cheaper than the Flat Rate, I'll save you a couple of bucks!INTERNATIONAL BIDDERS: If you would like to know the approximate cost of shipping to your country, please visit to view the various options. This package will weigh about 3-4 pounds and will ship from postal ZIP code 37212.LEGAL NOTICE: THE PHOTOGRAPHS AND DESCRIPTIONS IN THIS LISTING ARE COPYRIGHTED BY ME AND MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED BY WorthPoint, Pinterest OR ANY OTHER PARTY WITHOUT MY EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION. PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EBAY MESSAGING PRIOR TO COPYING ANY OF THE ABOVE CONTENT.If you are interested in old tools and would like to meet ni... read more

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