Vintage Universal Vacuum Bottle – Complete Boxed Set – c.1916–1920s – 1 Quart

A beautifully preserved early 20th-century Universal vacuum bottle, complete with its original illustrated box, cork stopper, and full set of serving cups. Manufactured in New Britain, Connecticut by Landers, Frary & Clark, this is a striking example of American industrial design from the post-WWI era, when vacuum technology was transforming everyday life.

An exceptional survivor — and increasingly hard to find complete.

📌 Key Details

• Brand: Universal

• Manufacturer: Landers, Frary & Clark

• Origin: New Britain, Connecticut, USA

• Date: c.1916–early 1920s

• Model: No. 5802

• Capacity: 1 Quart

• Construction: Nickel-plated brass exterior with glass vacuum liner

• Finish: Ribbed cylindrical body with polished metal top

• Size: 35 cm high by 9.5 cm diameter

📦 What’s Included (Complete Set)

✔ Original Universal vacuum bottle
✔ Original cork stopper
✔ Polished chrome outer cup
✔ Two aluminium auxiliary cups with wire loops
✔ Original illustrated cardboard box

(Complete boxed examples from this period are increasingly scarce.)

🕰️ Age & Authenticity

The base of the bottle is stamped with multiple patent dates ranging from 1914 to 1916, confirming early production following the final patent issuance. The heavy ribbed metal construction, typography, and packaging style are all consistent with early 20th-century manufacture, prior to later streamlined and Art Deco designs.

🎨 Style · Theme · Design

Style: Early Industrial / Utilitarian
Theme: Travel, Picnicking, Outdoor Leisure, American Innovation
Design Influence: Pre-Art Deco functionalism
Aesthetic: Honest materials, engineered durability, practical elegance

This piece reflects a time when products were built to last — and to be proudly displayed.

🔧 Materials & Production

• Exterior: Nickel-plated brass (ribbed for strength and grip)

• Interior: Glass vacuum liner

• Cups: Mixed metal (chrome and aluminium)

• Stopper: Original cork

📐 Condition Report

• Bottle: Very good vintage condition; light surface wear consistent with age, no visible dents affecting form

• Interior: Appears intact (not tested with liquids)

• Cups: All present with age-appropriate wear

• Cork: Original and intact

• Box: Original with edge wear, tears and repairs consistent with age; graphics remain bold and legible

Overall, a strong, honest example with excellent visual presence.

📦 Postage & Handling

• Carefully wrapped and boxed for safe transport

• Dispatch within 1–2 business days of cleared payment

• Combined postage available on request

• Local pickup available from Vintage HQ, Heidelberg VIC

• International shipping available – message for a quote

🔐 Returns & Authenticity

• All items are sold as described

• Returns only accepted if an item is significantly misrepresented

• This is an authentic vintage Australian piece, not a reproduction

ℹ️ Important Information

• Vintage items may show imperfections that are part of their charm

• Due to its age and original glass liner, this item is recommended for decorative, display or collectible use only rather than active food or beverage use.

• Not guaranteed to meet modern water or food safety standards

• Colours may vary slightly due to lighting or screen settings

❤️ Need to Know More?

Have questions or need more photos? We’re happy to help — just message us.

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