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c1950s 'Initial' Powder Compact by StrattonDescriptionWe were so pleased to find this unused example of a distinctive Stratton design! It is known as the 'Initial Compact' and, as Stratton states on the accompanying card, it makes 'A Personal Gift'. The goldtone metal casing belongs to a Stratton range which changed its name several times between the 1950s and 1960s; it started production during the late 1940s as the 'Scone', had changed its name to the 'Corona' by 1956, and the final name change was to the 'Regal' by 1960 - the range ceased to be made during the early to mid-1960s. The design feature that remained constant was the extension of the lid and base beyond the central section of the compact, which allowed the owner to hold her compact securely. The metal lid of this compact has been decorated with an elegant pattern of tightly-spaced, wavy lines, grouped together in vertical bands. At the top of the compact lid is a 'cut-out' section, displaying a capital letter in curved and flowing script. The letter can be changed to correspond with the name of the owner, by means of a metal tool which still accompanies this compact. There is a slim slot along the compact edge (at its right hand side), and the pointed end of the metal tool is used to move the letters forwards or backwards through the alphabet. We have changed the letter several times in the photos below, to show that this feature is still fully functioning. Not only is this compact lucky enough to still have the metal tool, but it also retains the card which gives instructions for changing the letter. The base of the compact is decorated with a simple spiral pattern, whilst the side edges display smooth and polished goldtone metal. Pressing the catch at the front reveals an interior which contains a separate, lidded compartment for loose powder; this is accessed via the patented Stratton self-opening mechanism (to protect fingernails), and it also has a regular catch at the right side of the compartment door. Instructions for operating the self-opening mechanism are given on a label attached to the framed glass mirror. A further label on the mirror states 'REAL ENGINE-TURNED FRONT'. We notice that when the initial letter is altered, the mirror itself must also move round, as the labels change their position - the labels are shown horiziontally when the letter 'A' is selected. Inscribed into the metal mirror frame are the words 'Made in England', and 'British and Foreign Patents Applied For'; we presume the latter inscription refers to the mechanism specifically found on the 'Initial' compact, as we have not seen it on other Scone/Corona/Regal items. The lid of the powder compartment features a pattern of vertical lines, and it displays the Stratton 'Compact-in-Hand' mark, which the company used during the 1950s and 1960s. The compact is complete with both the fabric-edged powder sifter and the powder puff; the pink top layer of the puff is embellished with the Stratton name and 'Compact-in-Hand' mark. The original Stratton box also accompanies this compact but interestingly, the black fabric pochette is not present - perhaps the original owner took it to use with another of her compacts (whilst she chose not to use this one!) The care and attention Stratton took over the design and manufacture of its items is evident by a statement on the back of the instructions card - 'This Initial Compact by Stratton is guaranteed for first class workmanship and material'. Manufacturer: Stratton Country of manufacture: England Product ref: C150 - SOLD
ConditionExcellent Plus. Despite the absence of its fabric pochette, we had no hesitation in placing this gleaming compact into our top condition category. The goldtone metal casing displays a highly polished appearance throughout. There are no dents or scuffed areas, and any tiny scratches are very difficult to notice. The black initial letters are clear and distinct, and we have turned the mechanism to view each one - we noticed that Stratton have not included the letters Q, U, X and Z amongst the selection! The interior of the compact is in just as impressive condition as the exterior - the metal is shining and free from scratches, and the mirror is completely clear. The self-opening mechanism works efficiently, and the powder compartment is unused. The sifter and puff are both in pristine condition. The outer catch snaps shut tightly and securely. The metal tool for changing the initial letter looks to have seen minimal use, and it is firmly attached to the instructions card via a grey cord. The card itself remains robust. As might be expected, the cardboard box shows superficial signs of its age, but it is still strong, and has successfully protected its contents over the years. Whilst this fine compact could undoubtedly be used in the future, we think it will hold special appeal to collectors of distinctive (and well preserved) Stratton items! Material: Goldtone metal Measurements: Diameter 75mm |
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