Antique Laguiole Knife By Maison Calmels, Hors Concours, Horn And Brass,first Half Of The 20th

Rare antique Laguiole knife with a forged fly, made by the prestigious Calmels company (Aveyron) (Pierre-Jean Calmels, the historical inventor of the Laguiole knife in 1829). This model bears the authentic stamp on the blade: "CALMELS A LAGUIOLE - HORS CONCOURS" (a signature reserved for the company's finest pieces) and is distinguished by its elegance and the quality of its fittings, with hand-engraved foliage motifs on the spring. The original carbon steel blade shows normal wear and a uniform gray patina that attests to its age. The spring is firm with an excellent "click" when closing, without any noticeable lateral play. The horn handle is perfectly sound. The handle is made of black horn (horn tip) with a magnificent patina and deep reflections. The ornamentation is a solid fly (bee), forged with the spring and chiseled. The head and foot bolsters are brass. The spring is entirely hand-engraved (decoration). Floral/foliage design. Traditional mounting with brass nails. Period: Late 19th or very early 20th century. Total length open: 18 cm. Length closed: 10 cm. Blade length: 8.5 cm. Shipping: Free within France. Carefully packaged and shipped via tracked parcel within 24/48 hours.