In a time when the Grand Tour was still considered a rite of passage, long voyages on elegant steam ships and in well-appointed railcars were adventures reserved for the wealthy. These travelers adapted to being away from their usual creature comforts by traveling with the very best luggage and accessories. In fact, train services such as the Orient Express are still synonymous with luxury- even in today’s technology and efficiency motivated culture. While the Orient Express may have faded from timetables in 2009, it is not too late to relive the heyday of sophisticated travel with some of the items we have right here in the gallery.
The French nécessaire de voyage would have been the perfect companion on trips through foreign lands. As you rubbed shoulders with other travelers from the upper echelon, this case’s refined rich coromandel veneer would have served the very important function of impressing new acquaintances. The cut crystal boxes and jars held within the nécessaire are beautifully adorned with engraved silver gilt and mother-of-pearl, showing that your taste goes deeper than mere veneer. You can’t be too cavalier with your belongings while crisscrossing the globe, however. No matter how posh your new friends are, or how familiar the exotic locales you frequent begin to feel, anything is still possible. That is why the nécessaire is not all show; it is fitted with locks by Bramah, a company still known for its superior craftsmanship. And for extra peace of mind, keep your valuables in one of the two secret compartments that extend from the case, each activated by pressing discreet buttons located within the interior.
Marked "Baucheron A Paris"
If sturdy locks on your nécessaire were not quite enough for your adventures abroad, you might have been comforted knowing that this pair of pistols lay within your luggage.
At only 8 ¾ inches long, these weapons were made for travelling. Sometimes referred to as “carriage” or “coach” pistols, this pair’s fitted case is the perfect size for packing inconspicuously among your belongings. Additionally, the weapons are cleverly designed so you won’t worry about having forgotten to pack a crucial piece; the ramrods are connected to the bottom with a hinge and the intricately carved walnut stocks each terminate with a hinged end cap that provides storage for extra bullets.
Fantastic conversation pieces, these items are in great condition and ready for your collection. Display them in your home or office and imagine your adventures in another life.
If you are interested in learning more about our pistols, many of which are not available on our website, please call us toll-free at (888) 814-7006.
