These vintage machine-stamped bells date to the mid 1900s. The original manufacturers called them "Dexter" bells, possibly based on the name of the original desiger. More about machine-stamped bells...
The strap is black leather 1 1/2 inches wide. The finished piece is about 32 inches long from the top of the ring to the tip at the bottom.
Although we (obviously) do restore steel sleigh bells, we do not generally recommend it, because the cost of restoration will exceed the monetary value of the bells. In some cases -- such as this example -- the sentimental value of the bells far outweighs economic considerations and we are happy to restore the bells to an attractive and useful condition.
Although these steel sleigh bells were originally chrome or nickel plated, the plating had long ago disappeared, leaving bare steel pitted with rust. After cleaning, steel bells can vary in color from brown to silver gray (shown).
This particular item is a custom, one-of-a-kind project made for a past client. Items in this Custom Projects section are for information only; they are not available for regular sale.
