Rare Antique Victorian John Weiss & Son 62 Strand London Horseman's Pocket Knife For Sale

Item Specifics:

• Brand: John Weiss & Son (London)

• Type: Multi-tool / Horseman's Knife / Coachman's Knife

• Era: Victorian (c. 1841–1885)

• Blade Material: Carbon Steel

• Handle Material: Antique Bone / Ivory (Period original)

• Country of Manufacture: United Kingdom

• Number of Blades/Tools: 5

Rare Antique Victorian John Weiss & Son "62 Strand" London Horseman's Multi-Tool Pocket Knife

Up for sale is a magnificent, highly collectible piece of 19th-century British craftsmanship: an authentic Victorian-era Horseman’s (or Coachman’s) multi-tool pocket knife. This exceptional tool was manufactured by the world-renowned firm John Weiss & Son at their historic 62 Strand, London address.

Historical Significance & Rarity

Founded in 1787, John Weiss & Son was arguably the most elite maker of surgical, veterinary, and high-end specialty cutlery in Victorian England. Because their primary output focused on medical instruments rather than general pocket knives, their sporting and utility multi-tools are exceptionally rare and highly prized by serious antique cutlery enthusiasts.

The clear, crisp tang stamps read: "WEISS & SON / 62 STRAND". Because the firm operated under this exact name and address from 1841 until moving to Oxford Street in 1885, this knife can be securely dated between 1841 and 1885.

Tool Breakdown & Features

This robust multi-tier folding knife measures approximately 4.25 inches when fully closed and extends to over 7.25 inches with the primary specialty tool drawn. It features five period-correct implements:

• Large Master Blade: Drop-point utility cutting blade with clear Weiss & Son stamping on the tang.

• Auxiliary Pen Blade: Smaller secondary blade for detailed or precision cutting.

• Hoof Pick / Boot Hook: A long, thick, heavily curved arm extending from the front bolster—originally engineered for clearing horse hooves or pulling stiff riding boots.

• Leather Awl / Punch: Located on the under-spine, perfectly shaped for piercing or repairing heavy leather horse tack, harnesses, or belts.

• Corkscrew: A classic helical screw for opening wine or medicine bottles.

• Escutcheon Plate: Inset blank German-silver shield on the handle scale, ready for personalized engraving or monogramming.

Condition Report

This knife is in excellent antique condition and displays a beautiful, untouched historic character:

• Handles: The cream-colored scales (period bone or ivory) are in fantastic shape, showing beautiful natural graining and age. They remain completely stable with minimal hairline aging around the pins and zero major chips or structural breaks.

• Steel: The carbon steel implements have aged gracefully to a dark, natural antique patina. There is no active rust, aggressive pitting, or destructive over-cleaning. The stamped lettering remains exceptionally sharp, deep, and fully legible.

• Mechanics: The blades have good structural integrity. [Seller note: Please inspect all photos carefully to evaluate physical alignment, and feel free to message me if you have specific questions regarding spring snap/tension].

This is a museum-grade cross-collector's piece that perfectly bridges the worlds of 19th-century mechanical utility, equine history, and premium British cutlery. Don't miss the chance to add this scarce John Weiss piece to your collection!

Shipping & Handling

• Will be shipped securely wrapped and fully insured to guarantee safe arrival.

• Please review all high-resolution photos as they constitute part of the physical description.

• International buyers: Please ensure your country's customs regulations permit the import of antique multi-tools before offerding.