c.1940s-1950s Dietzgen Drafting Instrument Set in Original Blue Velvet Case
Viridian Eclection
The Set
A drafting and drawing instrument set housed in its original black leatherette covered case with a vivid blue velvet interior and fitted compartments cut for each tool.
The set includes a main compass, bow instruments, ruling and pen attachments, extension bars and further interchangeable components, together with one wood handled accessory. Every piece sits in its own recess.
The cool silver tone metal against the saturated velvet lining, and the crisp geometry of the instruments themselves, give the whole a tailored, architectural look. Silver tone instruments, black exterior, blue interior.
History & Provenance
The case is marked Dietzgen, a respected name in drafting and engineering instruments, which places the set within the mainstream of American technical supply rather than at its margins.
It also carries a personalized plate reading George C. Voigt, Philadelphia. That plate is the closest thing the set has to a provenance record, and it gives the object a specific first owner and a city.
The date is estimated at the 1940s to 1950s on the strength of the Dietzgen marking, the case construction and the composition of the set. No dated stamp appears, so the period is given as an estimate.
Product Details
| Era | c. 1940s to 1950s, estimated |
| Maker | Dietzgen |
| Origin | American. Associated with Philadelphia through the owner plate |
| Form | Drafting and drawing instrument set in original fitted case |
| Materials | Metal instruments, leatherette covered case, blue velvet lining, wood handled accessory |
| Includes | Main compass, bow instruments, ruling pen attachments, extension bars, interchangeable components, original fitted case |
| Marks | Dietzgen case mark. Personalized plate reading George C. Voigt, Philadelphia |
| Color | Silver tone instruments, black exterior case, blue interior |
| Style | Industrial, academic, scientific, utilitarian |
| Dimensions | To be confirmed |
| Condition | Good vintage condition with age appropriate wear to the case exterior and interior. Instruments appear largely intact and well housed in their original fitted compartments |
Why It Belongs in Your Home
Some objects earned their beauty through function, and a drafting set is among the clearest cases. The order and intention of the fitted compartments is what makes old scientific tools hold attention.
It reads well on a library desk, in a study, inside a cabinet of curiosities, or layered into an office where utilitarian design still carries weight. The blue velvet interior alone gives the case something to do when it is open.
It suits a collector, a designer, or anyone drawn to finely made old tools. The set is sculptural closed and storied open, and it brings a note of intellect and precision to a room where materials and form matter more than trend.
Every piece is packed with professional-grade materials: multiple foam layers, double-boxing, directional and fragile handling labels. For large furniture we use custom timber crating. We photograph packing before dispatch and can provide images on request.
White-glove delivery is complimentary within 100 miles of Reno, NV. National shipping quotes provided at checkout. All shipments are photographed and documented. Damage claims must be filed with the carrier; we provide all documentation needed to support your claim.
Local pickup is available at Viridian HQ (Reno, NV) with 2–4 days notice. Contact us to arrange. Private viewings also available.
All antique and vintage items are sold as described and all sales are final. Each listing includes detailed condition notes and photographs so you can make a fully informed decision. We encourage buyers to ask questions — about condition, dimensions, finish, provenance — before purchasing.
Antiques are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind. Carrier handling is outside our control once a piece has left our facility, and major carriers including FedEx do not insure antiques. We do everything within our power to ensure safe transit, but cannot accept liability for carrier damage. If damage occurs in transit, we will provide full documentation to support your carrier claim.
Have a question? — we're happy to provide additional photos, condition detail, or discuss the piece directly.
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