These original vintage letterpress printer's trays make great curio organisers and display cases are loved by collectors.
An original vintage printer's tray with a uniform layout of sections. Scaramanga has been stocking these classic vintage printers' cases for over 10 years and they are one of our best-selling pieces. Made from thick teak they make perfect curio organisers and display cases.
We also have regular trays with mixed-sized compartments, small trays and large cases.
Originally used to store and display type print for typesetting printing presses. They were used until the end of c20th, but as technology advanced they were used less frequently and became completely redundant in the 1990s.
Approximate size: W75-85cm x D32-37cm x H3-5cm (dimensions and compartment configuration will vary).
These letterpress-type trays are in their original condition with lots of character and are totally authentic after many decades in a print factory. Read their condition report below for more information. The final image shows the 'regular' and 'large' printers' trays. Our current stock has been lacquered and will have a gloss finish, which is not shown in all the photos.
The colour of our existing stock varies from lighter to darker teak tones.
These cases have a more 'uniform' compartment arrangement. The 'uniform' trays may not have every compartment uniform, some may be double or triple spaced, with missing or broken dividers.
The cases will show wear and minor damage to the edges, dividers and bottom lining which may be split, show signs of repair or have missing sections. The final image shows wear to the bottom lining.
Today these printer's trays can be used as innovative storage cases, display cases, organizers or wall hangings with multiple compartments...perfect for your personal treasures especially if you have a large collection of small objects! Consider organizing your craft space or children's room with these vintage printing block trays.
Condition report:
Scaramanga's original vintage printer's trays are not new or made to look old. They have had long lives in industrial workshops. The tray's corners and/or bottom may have gaps between the boards, may be split or cracked and may not be uniform in colour. They may have some of the dividers missing or broken, uneven edges, marks and scratches on them, which are consistent with their age and original use. Their condition does not affect their use. We feel these add to their character and appeal. Please look at all the photos to get an idea of their condition.
Each salvaged tray has been washed, checked, and repaired to ensure it is structurally sound and varnished.
The final image show the colour variation and does not represent the compartment configuration.
The colour of our existing stock varies from lighter to darker teak tones.
We have 2 styles available: either a more 'uniform' compartment tray or 'mixed' compartments of varying sizes. The configuration of the latter will vary. The 'uniform' trays may not have every compartment uniform. If you have a preference please let us know at the time of ordering. If you do not let us know we will select a style and colour at random. The cases will show wear and minor damage to the edges, dividers and bottom lining which may be split, show signs of repair or have missing sections. The final image shows wear to the bottom lining.
These letterpress-type trays are in their original condition. Lots of character and totally authentic after many decades in a print factory. Our current stock has been lacquered and will have a gloss finish, which is not shown in all the photos.