Description
Vintage Hampson & Bettridge wooden handled brass bookbinding wheel in good used condition. William Hampson appears in the London Post Office Directories at 47 & 48 Old Bailey through 1860; the firm of Hampson & Bettridge appears at the same address in 1861. Later advertising gives a foundation date of 1795 for the firm, but that would not affect the dating of our press. Hampson & Bettridge joined N.J. Hill sometime between 1911 and 1936, and finally went out of business in the early 1960s. They were the most prominent bookbinders’ press makers in England for the best part of a century.
We sell collectable and old usable tools that are lightly cleaned before being offered for sale. Used tools are not perfect and may have minor flaws due to wear and tear. Any major defects will be pointed out in the description. All items are sold in an “as is” condition and have not been tested; some reconditioning may be required according to buyer’s standards which can vary wildly. Whilst best reasonable efforts are made to ensure usable items are brought to a good standard, those expecting perfection from used tools should consider buying new ones. Items described as ‘Antique’ or ‘Collectable’ are not sold for the purpose of use, if the buyer uses them we regard the item as sold or intends to use them it is their responsibility for additional costs to upgrade. If in doubt please ask as we are more than happy to help.
Prior to selling online, we used the web as a buyer for quite some time and although there was a hiccup or two by other sellers we found them all to be helpful when they were made aware, I aim to be the same. Whilst I would like to think I’m perfect my wife would always say I had perfect intentions and was honest enough to hold my hands up when I get it wrong. So if on the rare occasion I do get it wrong it’s not intentional and I will do my utmost to put it right for you.
Postage: As you can appreciate there is a lot of work needed to bring these tools back to life and as a result, I do get quite dirty when working in the workshop. I do have to allocate separate days to postage as a different operation, so I pack all orders every Sunday and Thursday and order the collection from Hermes on Mondays and Fridays So depending on what day you order your order will go out with the next shipment. Please allow 5 – 10 days for delivery for the UK.