Description |
SHIPPING AVAILABLE > A vintage Williams display board crafted from 1/2" thick wood, measuring 23.75 x 11.75 inches overall. The board is painted in a bold orange hue with black detailing, prominently featuring the WILLIAMS logo across the top. Fitted with evenly spaced nails, the board is designed to securely hold tools for display.
Mounted to the board are -5- Williams wrenches, varying in length and size.
Each wrench is constructed of robust steel, showcasing the high-quality craftsmanship associated with Williams tools. Yes, the tag shows -7- but -5- have been discovered at time of this listing.
Swift examination shows the head of each wrench is marked BILLINGS in stylized letters, along with Made in USA, as well as the size.
CONDITION REPORT ~ Moderate wear is evident on both the board and wrenches, consistent with age. The paint on the board exhibits some fading and scratches, while the wrenches retain their structural integrity but show surface oxidation typical of vintage tools. This set serves as both a functional tool collection and a collectible piece of hardware history.
HISTORY RELATIVE to WILLIAMS BILLINGS TOOLS
Williams and Billings & Spencer were two prominent American tool manufacturers with rich histories dating back to the 19th century.
Williams:
Founded in 1882 by James Harvey Williams and Matthew Diamond in Flushing, Queens, New York, Williams & Diamond began as a drop forging business. In 1884, the company relocated to Brooklyn and, by 1887, was operating under the name J.H. Williams & Co. The company was among the first to offer mass-produced drop-forged hand tools, which were essential in various industrial applications. In 1914, Williams expanded by opening a second factory in Buffalo, New York. Over the years, Williams became known for its high-quality tools, including the "Superrench" line introduced in 1926, which featured drop-forged alloy steel wrenches that were both lightweight and strong. The company continued to innovate, introducing flexible wrench systems and modular flat and socket wrenches. In 1968, J.H. Williams & Co. was acquired by Snap-on Tools, further cementing its legacy in the tool manufacturing industry.
Billings & Spencer:
Established in 1869 as the Roper Sporting Arms Co. by Charles E. Billings and Christopher M. Spencer in Hartford, Connecticut, the company reorganized as Billings & Spencer Co. in 1873. Specializing in drop-forged hand tools and machinery, Billings & Spencer were pioneers in the drop forging process, producing a variety of tools, including wrenches, pliers, and other hand tools. The company was known for its "B" inside a triangle logo, trademarked in 1905 but in use since the 1870s. By the early 20th century, Billings & Spencer had become one of America's leading tool manufacturers, expanding their product lines and facilities. In 1939, they acquired Bemis & Call, adding adjustable and monkey wrenches to their offerings. The company continued operations until 1962, when it was acquired by the Crescent Niagara Corporation.
Both Williams and Billings & Spencer played significant roles in the development and manufacturing of quality tools in America, contributing to various industries with their innovative products and manufacturing techniques.
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