Antique portable writing desk - age estimate?

I came across this small vintage writing desk. Any idea of its age? Thanks!!

 

@Shangas

 

Oh that is interesting!

I'd say early-Mid Victorian, maybe 1840s - 1860s/70s. In my experience, boxes which are later (1860s onwards) tend to have more leather on the outside, whereas earlier boxes tend to have a more natural wood-finish on the outside. I'm not sure why this is, but that's what I've observed. All the dated ones I've seen which are older (1880s, 1860s, 70s etc) have a LOT more leather on the outside. This, as you can see, does not, so I reckon it's before about 1860/70.

It's in pretty decent condition. I notice it has its inkwell, which is very important. Once you lose that, you'll never get it back.

It has sleeves for instruments and accessories, most likely made of ivory or silver, as was the fashion at the time...is there anything else you want to know about it?

 

Great thanks for the info. I purchased for just under $100 and wonder if that price is reasonable?

 

It would be relatively expensive for the UK, but your market may vary.

 

It really depends on where you live.

Where I'm at, these things go for a freaking FORTUNE ($600+ retail is not uncommon). So $100 would be a bargain.

 

A definite bargain price in the U.S.