This was in a box lot of watchmakers tools that I bought many years ago. I've shown it to many, but nobodies been able to identify the purpose of this tool. It looks like a crucible of some kind, it is made of iron, it measures 5 3/4" total length, the bowl measures 1 3/4" diameter. It has two arms are diagonally apart, flattened, at the tips, that adjust slide up/down approx 1/2". There is also two fine thread opposing adjustment screws, see photos. Any help appreciated.
very interesting..... on 1st glance....it looks like the bowl is well used to catch hot metal..... Could the arms and screws hold an item being soldered or torched ...dropping excess into the cup below...?
The arms and screws would act as a heat sink and defeat the operation.A third arm and a small metal dish of water is much better than the Tool Tip above.The modern method is use "Kool-Jewel".
I looked at all the crucibles I could find.....& most had a pouring lip. I can't see how you'd pour any thing from this....but it's construction and wear sure looks like it ws meant to get hot...or catch something hot. ( hummm...or heat somthing up...?) The search begins anew !
Well, whatever it is, it looks as if this seller has one, too: labeled: Old Primitive Watchmaker Tools Found In Antique Watchmaker's Desk from: https://www.etsy.com/listing/486593027/sale-old-primitive-watchmaker-tools?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=watchmakers tools&ref=sr_gallery_2
I keep thinking of a jewelers ball vise or some sort of engraving tool, the bottom may be to collect shavings?? The side clamps in conjunction with the top clamps remind me of the type of security you'd need to engrave metal... I'm very interested in what this is, cool find
