Vintage Richards Cutlers Ltd Sheffield Steak Knife Fork Set 12pc 1960s 70s

Key Details:

Brand: Richards Cutlers Ltd (Richards of Sheffield)

Origin: Sheffield, England

Material: Stainless Steel Blades / Timber Handles with Rivets

Set Includes: 6 Steak Knives + 6 Forks (12 pieces total)

Era: Circa 1960s–1970s (pre-1983 closure)

Style: Classic mid-century steakhouse / BBQ set

Use: Dining, steak service, entertaining

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Mini Story:

This set was produced by Richards of Sheffield (Richards Cutlers Ltd), one of the major English cutlery manufacturers of the 20th century. The company was founded in the 1930s by German émigré brothers Stephan and Paul Peter, who brought traditional cutlery-making expertise from Solingen to Sheffield—then the global centre of steel production.

Operating from their Moore Street factory, Richards grew rapidly in the post-war years, becoming one of Britain’s largest cutlery manufacturers. By around 1960, the company employed hundreds of workers and held a significant share of the domestic market. Their focus was on producing affordable, durable stainless steel cutlery for everyday households rather than high-end presentation pieces. Brands such as Speedway, Golden Age, and Snip Snap were part of their range.

This 12-piece steak knife and fork set is a classic example of their practical output from the mid to late 20th century, prior to the company’s closure in 1983. The knives feature a traditional steak knife profile designed for clean, reliable cutting, while the forks are sturdy and well-balanced with strong tines. The timber handles—secured with rivets—offer a comfortable grip and a warm, tactile feel that has aged beautifully over time.

Sets like this were particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s with the rise of casual dining and backyard entertaining. Today, they remain both functional and nostalgic—representing a genuine piece of Sheffield’s working cutlery industry.

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Condition:

Condition: Good vintage condition – see detailed notes below.

This is a pre-loved vintage set showing honest signs of use:

• Timber handles show light wear, scuffs, scratches/marks and patina consistent with age

• Blades have surface marks and light scratching from use

• Forks show minor tarnish and age-related spotting

• Rivets are intact and secure across all pieces

• No major cracks to handles or structural issues noted

📸 The photos form part of the description – please examine them closely.

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Postage & Handling:

📦 All items are carefully wrapped and packaged to ensure they arrive safely at their new forever home.

Combined postage available – contact us before purchasing for a revised invoice.

International shipping available on request – please message for a quote.

Local pickup available from Vintage HQ in Heidelberg.

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Other Info:

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Additional Notes:

Please keep in mind that vintage items are pre-loved. They may have small imperfections which are part of their charm. Also notice that vintage items do not necessarily meet current health and safety regulations. Every effort is made to describe our items honestly and accurately. However, as with all vintage pieces, small imperfections may occasionally go unnoticed. Please look over the photos carefully and feel free to ask for additional images or details before purchasing.

All items are sold as described. Returns are only accepted if an item has been significantly misrepresented. All items are genuine vintage pieces — we do not sell reproductions unless clearly stated.

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