Old tool boxes tell stories. I’ve picked up a few at estate sales and flea markets, and each one has character that new storage can’t match.
What to Look For
Solid construction – dovetailed corners, thick wood, brass hardware. These were built by craftsmen for craftsmen. The best ones are overbuilt by modern standards.
Check for structural damage. Loose joints can be reglued. Cracked panels are harder to fix. Missing hardware can sometimes be sourced from specialty suppliers.
Types Worth Finding
Machinist chests: Multi-drawer units, often oak with felt-lined drawers. Gerstner is the famous brand. These were status symbols for machinists and still fetch good prices.
Carpenter’s boxes: Large wooden chests with removable trays. Working men carried their entire kit in these. Look for original owner names carved or painted inside.
Tackle boxes: Sometimes adapted for craft use. Often have interesting compartment systems.
Restoration Basics
Clean gently – warm water and mild soap. Don’t strip original finish unless it’s failing. A light coat of paste wax refreshes most old boxes without changing their character.
Tighten loose hardware. Oil hinges. Replace missing felt. Small repairs that preserve rather than transform.
Using Them
Some collectors display them empty. I use mine. An antique box holding modern tools connects you to a tradition of craftsmanship. Every time you reach for a chisel, you’re continuing something.
Value
Prices range from $20 for rough boxes at yard sales to several hundred for pristine Gerstners. Buy what speaks to you at a price that makes sense. These aren’t investments – they’re tools with history.
