Tool Talk
Wrench Forum => Wrench Forum => Topic started by: johnek on December 09, 2012, 08:57:16 PM
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Hi all,
Happy to report I've bought my first Clyburn model Bahco
This is a nice 15" adjustable dating between 1914-1924, the first of the Series 3 models. Clyburn was a well-established name in England in wrenches and so the Clyburn name was used for marketing purposes. Not many of these around, although I saw an 18" in Australia some months back but it slipped through my fingers.
Good to hear from any other Bahco enthusiasts...
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Nice!! Interesting history on Clyburn model Bahco wrenches, can we see a full photo of yours?
"An adjustable spanner may also be called a shifting spanner, shifting adjustable, shifter, fit-all, "Swedish" or "French" key depending on type"
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The back has the patent marking that was used until 1924
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It looks like something to write home about to me.
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Well I dont know about writing home about it but certainly write to a specialist forum on wrenches. My family - well they just don't get it somehow....
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WoW! The Clyburn has been my Holy Grail for a while now. Didn't know they were still attainable.
" My family - well they just don't get it somehow...."
I've been giving BAHCO 11's as coming of age and welcome to the family gifts for many years. The recipients are always
appreciative and never give me any crap about my affliction. Bribe them while there young!
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That's a good idea! I'm new to the game, so they are still looking at me with sideways glances....
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Well,
The Holy Grail of BAHCO for the general population of BAHCO collectors seems to be the Generation 2. These were made from 1911 to 1914 and there just so few of them around. A serious collector I talked to recently said he had over 200 BAHCO wrenches and just 2 were Generation 2. He looks every day. We live in hope... if it were easy it would not be worthwhile
joHn
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Please educate us about these different generation BAHCO wrenches.
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Please educate us about these different generation BAHCO wrenches.
Bruce Melby (who I was quite sure was a member here - perhaps the old site) has a site devoted to Bahco which has a nice write-up on the different generations of Bahco wrenches:
http://www.melbys.net/bahco/Generations.htm (http://www.melbys.net/bahco/Generations.htm)
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Melbys site (http://www.melbys.net) was my first source of information for BAHCO and still very useful. Another great source is http://skiftnyckeln.blogspot.com.au/ which is owned by an enthusiast named Leif Backman in Finland. View it in Google Chrome and it will translate it for you on the fly. Another is www.oldwrenches.com
Both these Scandinavian gents have been very helpful and forthcoming with information.
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A short summary:
(See http://skiftnyckeln.blogspot.com.au)
Generation One 1982 - 1915
A. 1982-1902 Shaft widens
B. 1902-1910 Shaft narrows
C. 1910-1915 Parallel Shaft
Generation Two 1911-1914
A. 1911-1913 Right handed thread
B. 1913-1914 Left Handed thread
Generation Three 1914-1969
Parallel shafts
A. 1914-1924 Clyburn models, 45 deg head models plus many others - sharks, tyre levers, doubles
B. 1924-1953 Thicker edges, markings AB HJORTH&CO
C. 1954-1969 Thinner edges, markings AB BAHCO
Generation Four 1954- 1983
Shaft widens
A. 1954-1968 Models without the "0"
B. 1969-1984 Models with a "0"
Generation Five 1984 - 1992
Ergo series, models "80", ridged jaws
Generation Six 1992-
Ergo Models with rubber handle
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We don't seem to have many large BAHCO wrenches in the U.S. Always suspected that they all went to Australia and you seem to be more evidence of that. Love your collection and it seems that you have acquired a lot of knowledge in your quest.
Hope you don't mind if I share some pictures and ask a lot of questions about BAHCO mysteries that have bugged me for a long time.
To start with.....
My only large BAHCO is very similar to your Clyburn and I wonder if it is from the pre '24 period. It's a No. 84 and I read that the early 84 didn't say Clyburn like the 70 series did. What do you think of this?
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=64253359&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x455)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=64253358&mt=Photo&standardsize=987x411)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=64253361&mt=Photo&standardsize=978x450)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=64253360&mt=Photo&standardsize=987x455)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=64253362&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
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What do I think? I like it! Nice photos as well. I'll have to get my good camera out to compete with these.
We know that the first of the Generation 3's in the 70 series were labelled Bahco-Clyburn, (1914-1924) and then there were several changes to labelling over the period that Generation 3s were made. The patent No: 40417 was granted in 1914. We assume it was granted for 17 years. Currently Swedish patents are granted for 20 years, but it used to be 17 years (I am told). So from about 1931 the Patent labelling was dropped as it ran out. Then you can see wrenches with as in the No.72 (10") in my picture (The "o" in No. has two lines underneath it). They tend to have "Drop Forged Steel" on the back. After that (think it was the late 40s) it was the labelling as in my 12" BAHCO 83 MADE IN SWEDEN which had the A-B BA HJORTH&Co on the back, which lasted until 1953. Yes apparently none of the 80 series ever had Clyburn on them. That means that your nice BAHCO 15 would be made anywhere between 1914 and 1931.
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How would you like to find this in an old box at the back of your dad's shed?
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I would be overjoyed!
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One of my next questions was going to be which wrenches you got from your dad!
Is that an early 10B in the back?
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Here is an 82 with similar markings showing the patent number:
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That is labeled similar to mine except for lack of the 1x10 marking. I just remembered reading on Bruce's Bahco site that the post 1924 wrenches were thinner in the head than the early ones. The head on my No. 84 is 20.32 mm (.8 in.) thick. Could you measure your Clyburn sometime for a comparison?
Thanks for the info in the prior post. This is going to be very interesting!
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I'll be looking out for them for you from now on johnek, great to see another Aussie here. Nice mob of blokes on this fourm.
batz
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Nice mob of blokes on this fourm.
batz
Thanks !! (I think)
Brian L.
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We like Aussies. Even though you speak funny...
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Just when you think you have got all the answers as to what labels appear on what models, an exception comes along..
Here is an early Series 4 (1954-1968) with the more modern style non-parallel sided shaft, produced alongside the more traditional parallel sided shaft models (eg 73). This is a model 973 which makes it Right Hand thread (the 9), a 15 deg head angle (the 7) and 12" ( the 3). All these were thought to have had rear markings of AB BAHCO STOCKHOLM or BAHCO SWEDEN, but this one has the A/B BA HJORTH & CO STOCKHOLM which was only thought to be on Series 3. There appear to be "transition" models which help to date the artefact. This wrench may be one of the first production runs of the 9 series made around 1954.
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In response to the question by Volvadi, namely which wrenches did I obtain from my father, I have a picture below. My father by the way is 94. He was a marine engineer from Sweden who worked on merchant ships during his working life and he taught me how to fix things and work on cars. He lives in a home now.
Anyway, his BAHCO are in this picture. I have them marked in my collection file as coming from him. The 10" 72 is in particularly pristine condition. The more modern 10" 0672's have a thinner jaw have had more use and I guess he favoured those
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Nice find! Is this also a clue that the A-B wrenches are older than the A/B wrenches?
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It "looks" like that may be the case: That A-B is older than A/B as you suggest. I've got A-B on my No 83 and my No 10 so the theory holds in those instances at least
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Must have been typing (very slow thinker) when you posted the pictures of your dads wrenches. That is such a great story of how you came to be a BAHCO fan. That wrench collection of his would have to impress anyone... even a none believer!!
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You should see the other stuff from him.... I've got a wall of old spanners, heaps of taps, dies, pullers, literally hundreds of sockets up to 1 inch shaft... A few really big spanners bought for marine engine work as well....
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You should see the other stuff from him....
Waiting......
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Some pics 1
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Some pics 2
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I like that Sidchrome set.
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Now now, let's not get off topic here with unauthorized comments about that other Swedish brand starting with an "S". I should never have shown those here.
Instead, here are some nice 8 inch BAHCOs Skiftnycklar arranged in order of age. Newest at the bottom of the picture, oldest at the top
The LH Column shows the progression from oldest No. 71 Generation 3, A 71 newer Gen 3, an 0671 Gen 4 and an 8071 Gen 5. I have included in the next column an 81, and 11 with tyre lever, and a modern Shark (with printed markings). The right hand column has a curious bicepherous 70/71 and a Gen 4 31 Volvo. 8" is sure a handy size.
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The 31 Volvo is the BAHCO that got me started collecting wrenches.
From Papawswrench- http://www.papawswrench.com/wrenches.htm (http://www.papawswrench.com/wrenches.htm)
My first alligator wrench was in the form of an adjustable wrench I acquired in the tool kit of an old Volvo car I bought in 1969 for $25 and an old twin-lens reflex camera . I bought the car from a guy leaving for Canada to avoid the draft . I never heard from him again . The wrench is still in my toolbox and I use it regularly . It was some years later that I found out about Bahco .
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What got me started is one day I organised my tools and hung up my 4 shifters on a board with 4 screws. I noticed I had a 15" Bahco, a 12" Bahco and 8" Bahco and a 12" in another brand. Seemed to me a good idea to sell this other 12" and get a 10" Bahco to make a set of Bahco in size order - an 8, 10, 12, 15. I did that. Then I found out I could get an 18" and a 4" and a 6" to make a fuller set. I did that too. I noticed while I was acquiring this set that there was a lot of variation in labels and age. So I read about Bahco history. Then I wasnt happy having one set of each size, I wanted a set of each type in each size. So I kept going. Fortunately, or unfortunately, the variations are almost endless, so I can keep getting them without having any repeats.
How many will I need before I absolutely have one of every variation you ask? Dunno. 50 is not near it at all, nor will be 100. It could be 250? That is just a guess. But collecting is not about getting to some end goal. If these shifters were freely available and I had lots of money to buy them straight away, what would have I achieved? Surely its about the process - the journey - and learning along the way.
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Surely its about the process - the journey - and learning along the way.
That's the real truth!
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I agree,and we are doing it together! Thats why the Henry's quote at the top of the page sums up this forum.
Graeme
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Your Bahco journey will certainly benefit a lot of us. It has already.
Thanks for the pictures of your dads tools. The best tools in my opinion are the ones that you know the history of, especially when it's family history.
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Generations of BAHCO visually
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Thank you Johnek for sharing your passion for Bahco and for joining Tooltalk. Welcome from a little way up the coast from you. Ive always bought bahco shifters as users, when the price was right of course, but today I might have bought this shifter at any price after the education you have given us! I bought a No 86 (45 degree 24 inch)in very good condition, from Bruce's site I gather that it's the welded 1950's model. It's the largest shitfer I'll ever own it weighs over 7lbs!
Graeme
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Johnek, I happened to look on Oz eBay and found one the same as I bought today for sale! ( Some slight differences you might like to discuss later) http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/221154656262?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
It may even be you who has made the offers? I have know idea whether that price is reasonable or not? I did see that a new 24" bahco costs out here nearly $400! Suffice to say I didn't pay anywhere near the eBay asking price!
Graeme
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...that other Swedish brand starting with an "S".
Swedish?!
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>Swedish?!
Sorry, but true....
http://www.ebay.com/itm/USED-SIDCHROME-300-mm-12-INCH-SHIFTER-MADE-IN-SWEDEN-/261120771091
Now back to our regularly scheduled program...
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Johnek, to answer your question (reply#34) on how many tools? per Wikipedia; over 7000. Your Bahco journey is just beginning...
"Bahco is an international brand within the hand tool industry, with its products designed and manufactured by SNA Europe. Its roots go back to the industrial revolution of Sweden in the late eighteen hundreds, starting with innovations such as the pipe wrench and the modern adjustable wrench. Since then, the product range has expanded with a total assortment of products that today includes over 7000 hand tools"
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Graeme,
Did you post a picture of the 86 you just bought? I didnt see it. The one for sale at $189 is a bit on the high side - that's why its been there a while. I didnt offer on it - as I have one just like it - I got mine earlier in the year for $100. My biggest is my 87 of course. We might want to have a private discussion about which ones we are going for so we are not always in competition, and I'll be sure to point out good deals to you when I see them on the ones I dont want.
What is your oldest one, and how many BAHCO do you have?
I attach a picture of my latest finds - I have not even received them as yet.
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"Bruce's site?" was mentioned by Graeme, I think I know the one you mean but not sure....
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Someone here showed us this link http://www.melbys.net/bahco/Generations.htm
Graeme
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Oh yes I know that one (Bruce's site) I thought it was implied there was a site from which Bachos could be purchased that I did not know of. I have obtained a small number from the tool exchange (Australia)
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Here is a photo of my two 24 inch model Bahco 86. One is pre 1950 and has a smooth shaft and stamped markings. The other is post 1950. Both have 45 Deg angle heads. You would have to say they are both 3rd Generation - early and late. The 86 and 87 models started being produced with 22.5 deg heads I think as of Generation 5 - 1984 on. Very late ones, Generation 6 will have the Bahco fish symbol, a divider on the shaft about half way, measurements in mm, and vernier markings on the jaws
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Sorry Johnek, my sentence making was at fault. I bought the 86 at our local market. I thought I got a good buy because it looked at a glance to be in good condition, the seller had painted the handle (no big deal) but in the rush of getting back to my own stall, I didn't notice that it had been severely over strained at one time! I am still thinking through what to do about That? It is the similar in style to the one that was on eBay but is branded A/b BA HJORTH & Co STOCHHOLM SVERICE and the BAHCO on the other side has a larger H!
Graeme
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Sounds like from the markings its an older one, possibly made between 1950 and 1954. My newer 86 model is a bit loose in the jaw too. You can replace the jaw with a new one, that might solve the problem or at least make it better. But it might look s bit odd.Where do you get a new parts? Some sellers have them. They are still available right now in Sweden. But shifter parts are usually sold in big lots. Then you have to onsell the ones you dont want etc etc. Might be best just to wait and get a better condition 86
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This is what you need?
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If it was that easy,the movable jaw is fine, I would guess that a new jaw would cost more than I payed for the whole shifter. Some one has has use a cheater bar (4ft of pipe?) on it and the fixed jaw is leaning out 3-4 degrees! My mistake I should have looked with more care and not been in a rush! But I think with careful heating and a 3lb copper hammer it could be made right?? In all my tool hunting I don't remember if ever seeing a shifter so bent, let alone a large Bahco!
Graeme
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Look - I think a man needs a good 86. A slack-jawed variety is just not on. I observe there has been a few goodish ones on Ebay UK recently - so they are around. Maybe snap up one o those?
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A Merry BAHCO Christmas from Sydney Australia
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Pretty cool, John!
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I guess I'm a bit of a big kid.
So I got some chocolate and a box of 'toys'
Bahco toys of course
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That box contains more BAHCO wrenches than I own all together!
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Over 50! Well, I didn't actually get them for Christmas - obviously it takes a while to build this up as there are no repeats in this lot - but it's a nice thought!
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Hello all,
In dealing with Bahco adjustable wrenches there are three patent numbers that are sometimes found on the older Generation Three (1914 onward). The first of the Gen 3 had Pat 40417 which relates to the groove on the shaft allowing easier access to the adjusting knurl. You can see an example on this No.81 (Image 1). The second that is found on 70 series keys is 38643 which relates to the angle of the head being 15 degrees. You can see both on the Bahco-Clyburn 74 (image 2). The third is 55338 which I have only just come across. This is shown on the curious double fish Bahco 164 (image 3) and an old Bahco 31 I recently acquired (image 4). I think this relates to the pipe jaws - that would make sense as I've only seen it on this type of wrench - but not sure how to look the patent numbers up. Maybe someone can help?
Pat numbers present on any Bahco wrench are a good indicator of it being older. Only the first of the Generation 3 showed these numbers.
Like to hear from any active collectors of Bahco wrenches, especially any in Australia. Anyone out there? I have a couple of good contacts in Sweden and Finland, but that's all at the moment.
Regards,
joHn
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http://was.prv.se/spd/search?lang=en (http://was.prv.se/spd/search?lang=en)
http://was.prv.se/spd/search?content=55338&lang=en&tab=1&hits=true (http://was.prv.se/spd/search?content=55338&lang=en&tab=1&hits=true)
http://was.prv.se/spd/patent?p2=LhyGUWiTc50%3D&hits=true&tab=1&content=55338&lang=en&hitsstart=0&start=0 (http://was.prv.se/spd/patent?p2=LhyGUWiTc50%3D&hits=true&tab=1&content=55338&lang=en&hitsstart=0&start=0)
(http://was.prv.se/spd/image?landkod=SE&publnr=LhyGUWiTc50%3D&dokkod=C&page=1)
From 1923.
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Awesome thanks!
One of my goals is to obtain a clearer view of what approximate years the wrenches had and did not have the patent numbers. My observations are that not many series 3 have them at all.
joHn
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I really like that double alligator No. 164. It would look really nice in trunk of my Volvo 164 along with the No. 11 and No 31.
Another Bahco patent that I like is 41591. It is found on these Channellock type pliers No. 132.
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=65702611&mt=Photo&standardsize=951x451)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=65702610&mt=Photo&standardsize=945x435)
The patent was granted in 1916. That's 16 years earlier than the Champion–DeArment Tool Companies Channellock patent.
http://was.prv.se/spd/search?lang=en (http://was.prv.se/spd/search?lang=en)
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Here are two nice Bahco No3 wrenches - They are 15 inch
Both are late Generation 1, made between 1910 and 1915. Wonderful items great to handle.
The first one has a non-original hole (the small hole), so its earlier than the second one.
Notice the inscription KM as well. Does that significantly devalue a wrench?
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Very nice! I wouldn't be complaining about a few initials and extra holes if I had those two.
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Was that you who got a nice as new 4" Bahco with patent numbers in a box recently?
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(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=67899035&mt=Photo&standardsize=1024x768)
That was me and I've learned a great deal about Swedish exchange rates in the process. Hadn't planned on bidding but at the last minute realized that I would be in agony if this thing went cheap. Checked the exchange rate on my phone and saw the number 15.
Thought it was 15 Krona to $1 US. Bid 1600 Krona or $106.00 US.
Didn't think I had a chance at this amount but at least I would be a contender.
Miraculously I was the winner at 1525 Krona. Spent two days trying to justify spending more than ever before on a single wrench.
The seller agreed to accept a cashiers check and before heading to the bank I decide to check the current exchange rate. On the
bigger screen of the home computer I notice a decimal point before the 15. What does that mean?
This is what it means.... .15 x 1525K = $228.75 Or 6.6 Krona to $1.00 Whoops!!!!!
The sellers last name was Johansson. I will ask if there is a connection to Johan Petter.
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=67899034&mt=Photo&standardsize=1024x768)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=67899032&mt=Photo&standardsize=1024x768[img]
[img]http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=67899036&mt=Photo&standardsize=1024x768)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=67899033&mt=Photo&standardsize=1024x768)
The good news is that it will fit right in with the rest of my BAHCO 4 inchers.
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=67897971&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=67897970&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
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Wow! What a group!
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Very nice indeed. I thought there must be a story behind it as I was surprised at the tall price myself. As yet I dont have a 69 with the Patent number. That's the only 4" I'm looking for at the moment. I do have a Generation 4, 969 model with very unusual markings A/B BA HJORTH & CO, which almost exclusively disappeared at the end of Generation 3.
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Here are some pics of my 15" BAHCO, oldest to newest
Picture 1
Top: A Bahco model 3 with tapered shank, Generation 1 1903-1910
Middle: A Bahco model 3 with parallel shank, Generation 1 1910-1915
Bottom: A Bahco-Clyburn 75 Generation 3, 1914-1924
Picture 2
Top: A Bahco 84 with Drop Forged Steel Generation 3, 1914-1924
Middle: A Bahco 84 with A/B BA HJORTH Generation 3, 1924-1948
Bottom: A Bahco 74 with A/B BA HJORTH Generation 3, 1924-1953
Picture 3
Top: A Bahco 74 Generation 3 1954-1969
Bottom: A Bahco 974 Generation 4 1954-1969
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A Bahco No 1 Generation 3 from 1910-1915
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A few good recent additions to the BAHCO collection photos below:
No 4 (18") 1910-1915
No 3 (15") 1910-1915
No 2 (10") 1910-1915
An 83 1915-1924 made same era as Bahco-Clyburn
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Wow! When does the museum open? Need to start saving for the trip! Do you know what the stars mean? Thought they might be WWII era but just guessing. I have one with crowns on it also.
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Just to add to the thread
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Nice, so are you going to clean off the surface rust or leave him as found? You realise these are worth a lot, dont you?
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Do you know what the stars mean? Thought they might be WWII era but just guessing. I have one with crowns on it also.
Hi,
No I dont but I will find out! I suspect its just a symbol used like the dash or equals in BAHCO-CLYBURN. I have seen quite a few in Sweden with "three crowns"
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Hey Volvadi,
Referring to your recent post on the acquisition of a (I recall very pricey) Bahco No 69, I have found a missing element in the progression from early to recent.
This one (I just bought it) does not have the Pat number on it, but it has the older style No 69 and drop forged steel, and would have been produced sometime between your oldest and your second oldest. Check it out.
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...and there is this one which is unusual as its a very early Generation 4 (1954-1968) which has the A/B BA HJORTH markings on it. Normally this is only found on Series 3 (which were produced at the same time). This would fit in as the first of your generation 4. There you go - some more for you to get I suppose....
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Hi John, Here's a Bahco I ran across at a local Flea Mkt. this morning. It is right at 21 in. long and everything worked. I took some pictures with my phone and am seeing if I can post them for you to see. I have no idea if this is a rare wrench or not, or what they are worth.
Mike
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Hi,
I note there is a 90 model Bahco pipe wrench on EBay UK at the moment, worth watching to see what it goes for (item 121073573825)
I havent collected them only because I havent started, and I think if I found one at a flea market I couldnt resist either. From what I have seen there is less demand for these than the traditional shifters - but less of them around too. Be nice to have the full set of sizes.
I wish there were Flea markets here in Sydney that had this sort of stuff...
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Hey John, That "Drop Forged Steel" 4 incher is a beauty! From what I've learned from your earlier posts I was expecting that to turn up as well as an "A-B AB BAHCO" variant. Wonder what other missing elements will turn up as the years pass?
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Just signed the adoption papers on this nice Bahco-Clyburn 6" (1914-1924)
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Nice!
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Hi again BAHCO enthusiasts,
I have acquired a very interesting BAHCO wrench that appears to be a transitional model from the early series 3 BAHCO-CLYBURN (1915-1924) to the series 3 BAHCO 1924-1954). It has all the labelling of an early series 3 from 1925, (just BAHCO, no mention of CLYBURN; and the Pat No.); however it has a definite jaw profile of a Clyburn, which is not pointed but more rounded (see highlight on picture). Never seen this before....
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Following on from the post about the transitional labelling on the Bahco-Clyburn, good comparison is the markings on this 83 and the 73 - they are the same, (except for differences in font size on the back). Both have PAT No. 40417 DROP-FORGED-STEEL on the back. Both have the whitworth size markings on the front 3/4x12 IN. From about 1924, the whitworth size markings were no longer used. Labelling features from oldest to youngest for the period 1914 to 1953 (thick shaft edge Generation 3) would be:
1. BAHCO-CLYBURN (only on 15 degree head models)
2. Whitworth size markings eg 3/4x 12 IN
3. Pat No 40417 and 38643 together
4 Pat No 40417 only
5. No. 83 rather than just 83
6. DROP FORGED STEEL
7. MADE IN SWEDEN underneath BAHCO
8. A-B BA HJORTH & Co
9. A/B BA HJORTH & Co
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Here are some more photos of Bahco-Clyburn (1915-1924) wrenches.
All show the whitworth size markings from 1 1/4" (75 - 18") to 3/8" (70 - 6") and the rounded jaw profile also seen on the 81-85 models of the same era
The 15" and the 6" show two PATENT numbers and a pressing number of 1, indicating they would be the very first of the BAHCO-CLYBURNs
The 12" is a transitional model without the CLYBURN label.
Sometimes the dash (-) is an equals (=) in BAHCO-CLYBURN and usually is when under the "o" in No.
I hope to show you a No. 72 to complete the series soon.
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Here is a 84 model which just happens to have been stamped with the date - I assume when it was new- showing 1929
This is consistent with previously suggested dates for different markings on the 45 deg models. This makes it an early one in the series that was produced up until the late 1940s
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I really like those forward look wrenches
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Having my thread on page 3 of the Wrench Forum is just not good enough - I'll do anything to get attention - so I wanted to let everyone know that as I now have a collection approaching 100 Bahco, I've had to employ an assistant (see below) to help me organise them
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What model BAHCO is that model holding?
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Generation 5, produced from 1983. Looks like a 15" or an 18".
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Now you have my full attention! Your assistant is quite a looker! Mine is a bit of a tomgirl, but being ambidextrous is a great asset around the shop.
Only safe for work if you are a mechanic!!!!
http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=77043656&mt=Photo&standardsize=694x1024 (http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=77043656&mt=Photo&standardsize=694x1024)
Her main job is keeping the old tools from getting rusty.
Is this BAHCO oil can supposed to pump the oil or is that just a check valve to prevent it from spilling?
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=77043657&mt=Photo&standardsize=1012x627)
I keep it full of mineral oil and it's really comes in handy when lubricating the old tools.
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OK guys- fun is fun, but ease up on the pin-ups, please. The great looks are appreciated by some , but not all, and not one of the focuses of Tool Talk.
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Sorry about that Papaw. I have now somewhat fixed it.
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Here is another nice No 21 with duel Patent markings
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A new acquisition. Here is a Bahco 2A (12") from 1910-1915, the shaft hole indicates later in the period. Bit of a labeling blunder when you call a 10" a No 2, and a 15" a number 3 and then realise you'd like to make a 12". Whoops. Anyway, nice and unusual.
Of the Generation 1 Bahco, you will find:
1892-1903 (shaft widens): Very rare to find
1903-1910 (shaft slopes to a point): Average difficulty to find
1910-1915 (parallel shaft): Relatively easy to find
From my experience, the most common size by far is 15" (No3), after that 10" (No2), then equally 8" (No1), 12" (No 2A) and 18" (No 4)
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Nice set of Generation 1 BAHCO, 8" (No1); 10" (No2), 12" (No2A), 15" (No3), 18" (No4)
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The oldest BAHCO-stamped wrenchI have found is pictured below. It has the legend "H.N.", underneath of which are the words "TVER=GADE 15" This 12-inch wrench looks old, its handle has parallel sides, but I have no reference points to date it.
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So your 12" Bahco 2A is from 1910-1915 (parallel sides). The engravings "H.N.", "TVER=GADE 15" are someone's after-market personal identifiers. Looks like the shaft hole is non-original as its offset and smaller than it should be which means it wouldn't have been a later one. The way that Made in Sweden is under BAHCO 2A is characteristic of later stampings though. So some evidence for later and some for earlier= maybe middle of the period, 1913?? Nice one.
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Any significance the sole word Sweden to date this one?
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The 69 in the photo above (previous post) is of interest for a couple of reasons. Its a Generation 3 with the straight shaft and thin edges from 1954 to 1969. At the same time Bahco made the 969 and 669 models with the shafts wider at the end, these being generation 4. From 1969 these changed to 0969 and 0669. See examples below. This is when 'Made in Sweden' became just 'Sweden'.Later models such as Generation 4 8069 are also just 'Sweden'. Certain wrenches dont fit this pattern and these 'transitional' models are uncommon. It is almost as if they were experimenting with a few different patterns at the time of change-over. So your wrench is probably the last of the Generation 3, made in 1968/1969.
It is curious as well because the moulding number is on the front side of the wrench. Its always on the back! Its a nice one to keep.
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A complete set of double-headed Bahco models, Generation 3
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Imagine how hard it would be to gather up a set like that!
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New acquisition - a Bahco 22. The Bahco Sharks 20, 30 (6") and 21, 31 (8") are fairly common, but 22 (10") and 23 (12") are not. This one is an early one of Generation 3 with two patent markings. Note that it has a imprint number of 1 - so its from the very first batch of these. Interestingly it seems to be missing from the 1929 catalogue. Dont know if it was a typo or introduced later.
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Ok, those are cool. Great user wrenches yet too.
A question:
I have a 10" with the normal handle ending in a hang hole. The name of the company is spelled out long form.
How do we know what generation the Bahco adjustables are?
What are the traits of each generation?
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What's a 'normal' handle anyway?
Here is a summary of the features of each generation. If you post some pictures I can probably give you an approximate manufacture date
Generation 1 - 1892-1915 These have a flat (smooth) handle with markings punched in them and a 45 degree head. The first were hand forged but soon they started to use drop forging. Three different types based on shafts getting wider, thinner or being parallel
Generation 2 - 1911-1915 - The angle was changed to 15 deg and the markings were dropped forged. Very rare now
Generation 3 - 1915- 1924 and 1924 - 1953 and 1954-1969 were three main phases of this featuring different markings and head shape. The main feature was the I-beam shape of the shaft that extended all the way to the set screw. There were 15 and 45 degree heads
Generation 4 - 1954-1968 and 1969-1983 were the two main phases. Main feature was a widening shaft but also thinner jaws and ergonomic improvements. Surface treatment changed from oxide to phosphate.
Generations 5 & 6 - Mostly ergonomic changes and some marked visual differences from earlier models
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OK, first my apologies. The answer was in the thread twice, just needed to look through it a few times to get to the roots. A lot more to sort through than it appears. Cool!
It is a gen 3, 2nd phase into the early 50's model 72. The jaws appear thinner and slightly tapered so most probably later production of the run. Normal in this case is the handle has parallel side and I beam with hang hole. Like most modern brands production yet.
It shows wear but jaw slop is minimal even after more than 50 years. I found it in a street market in Mexico of all places.
Everybody here says these came with cars, my BIL has a 10" with the alligator handle that was part of his dad's car kit. He says the car was new mid 60's or so. Now the car is long scrapped after a wreck. He never mentioned what the car was. ( Volvo comes to mind )
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Like these?
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Yes Sir, those are examples of the two I have seen. I'd like to find a 'gator version of my own one day. It doesn't even have to be pretty.
Mine resides with better examples of older German and Mex branded adjustables that all share quite precise tolerances for adjustables. Out of more than a dozen or more only the best seven were kept in the purges of 2011.
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From 1924 to 1953 Bahco 70 series shifters had a pointed fixed jaw and thick edges along the shaft. These type are more sought after than the later type with the thin edges. There were 4 basic types of markings on these. The earliest had whitworth size markings like the Bahco-Clyburn as well as one or two patent markings, then came Drop Forged Steel and Pat No 40417, then the Patent number 40417 was not included at all, and finally A/B BA HJORTH & Co was used in the 1940s. There are minor variations in this though, making the total number of actual markings more like 7 or 8. For example, from the matrix numbers it is clear that A-B preceded A/B, as shown on these wrenches.
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That's good information. Thanks!
Here is a 70 from that period...
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=83240185&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=83240186&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
This reminds me, have you ever found out what the stars and crowns are for? Here is the wrench that I mentioned had the crowns....
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=83240190&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?&mid=83240189&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
Here is one with just one star...
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=83240187&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
(http://photos.foxgti.com/i.ashx?gallery=1013514&mid=83240188&mt=Photo&standardsize=994x746)
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Three Bacho adjustable wrenches, NOS in original packages on eBay this morning:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/350883927237?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
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These are good but rather modern. I have a set of all the sizes for 067* Series, produced from 1969-1983. So far as I know the later versions of generation 4 had the length specification in mm (eg 0673-300) prior to the introduction of the 80 ergo series. ...And this is where I give up collecting as they are just too recent. Mind you, sometimes you find spanners in an original packet and they are definitely more valuable, sometimes double the price of a similar as new condition wrench. I note a Gen 3 No 72 period 1954-1969 in excellent condition is at least 3 times the price if the box is included as well (see picture). These are the cheapest of Bahco otherwise
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This could be the rarest of the 4 inch BAHCO wrenches.
The No 29 was made from 1925 to mid 1926 when its designation was changed to No 69.
You will notice it has a single patent number and a stamped jaw (like the later Bahco-Clyburn models) and a rounded fixed jaw (like all the Bahco-Clyburn Models).
Curiously, this one has the matrix number of "0", which is not seen on any other Bahco wrench.
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Very, very cool. Always wondered if one of these actually existed. Do you know the owner? I would love to see it in person some day.
Also... Do you know what the "Matrix" number means? It's always been a curiosity of mine.
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Hi Volvadi,
The owner is - me!
The 'matrix' number is the number associated with the pressing, or mould. They could only make so many before they needed a new mould, and this was the opportunity to change the labeling, which sometimes happened. For each series, it starts at 1. It gives an indication of the wrench's age. I have several with Number 1.
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Hi Volvadi,
The owner is - me!
The 'matrix' number is the number associated with the pressing, or mould. They could only make so many before they needed a new mould, and this was the opportunity to change the labeling, which sometimes happened. For each series, it starts at 1. It gives an indication of the wrench's age. I have several with Number 1.
I'm am wondering what the moulds were for, aren't these wrenches drop forged? Wouldn't it be the dies that wear out and need to be replaced?
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Dies yes, not moulds. I should use the correct terminology
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"The owner is - me!"
Congratulations on owning this rare thing. Australia is on my bucket list but it will probably be quite a while before I get there.
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STARS AND CROWNS ON BAHCO
The meaning of these was asked about recently.
I have had a discussion with another collector in Finland about various markings on Bahco - we are currently starting to build up a database of how the different markings for each model progresses with the matrix numbers (the small numbers near the base of the handle). So we have established that these numbers are changed when the die used in the forging process is renewed. Obviously some new numbers meant a change in some of the other markings - including major changes like DROP-FORGED-STEEL being replaced with A/B BA HJORTH & CO.
However, dies apparently were also refurbished - not replaced - and this often meant the addition of another star. Possibly this was a way of keeping track of the fact that the die was refurbished. This is confirmed by the fact that there are samples with the same matrix number but more stars. So two stars is later than one.
As for three crowns - this means the wrench belonged to the armed forces, and was punched in by them. Sometimes these wrenches have a professional looking stamped number that is the army's record keeping of their stock.
See attached images as examples. Will post an example of wrenches with same matrix number, different number of stars, when I find one.
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Here is an example. Two model 69s made probably mid 1940s (A/B BA HJORTH & CO) with matrix number 62 and different stars. This is meant to show the same die was refurbished.
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Another Bahco 22, a bit later than the one previously posted. Notice this one has a matrix number of 3, yet is very advanced from the first pressing: No number stamp on the movable jaw, no Patent numbers at all, and A-B BA HJORTH, placing it in the early 1940s.
This shows that there weren't many of these made at all, which is why they now sell at around $100
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And this, I have never seen or heard of this before. I will try to find out - there's a chance its a mis-label. When I found it I initially thought someone had just made a mistake and it was a common 969
Bahco 4" 469 Croma
The reason it is unique is that the shaft hole is a ring spanner. It's a multi-purpose tool!
LIST OF KNOWN 4" Bahco numbers in Chronological order
1925-1926 Number 29
1926 - 1953 Number 69
1954 - 1968 Number 969 Number 669
1969 - 1983 Number 0669
1984 - 1992 Number 8069
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Here are some photos of "first edition" BAHCO from my collection. These have a matrix number of 1 (except in the case of the small Bahco 29 that has a matrix number of 0). This means they are the first die made with those markings. For some of the rarer models, such as the large Shark models, the production only had low matrix numbers and there were not many variations in markings
We have:
Bahco-Clyburn 74 from 1914
Bahco-Clyburn 70 from 1914
Bahco 83 from 1914
Bahco 21 1932
Bahco 22 1928
Bahco 29 1925
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Here is a Bahco 470 - a 6 inch model that was produced between 1934 and 1941. Right hand set screw. These are quite rare and feature a ring spanner in the shaft hole. Made from Chrome Vanadium Steel and chrome plated. This one shows a matrix number of 5 and the A-B BA HJORTH & Co which suggests it might be mid to late through what was a limited production - possibly late 1930s
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I have come across a nice example of the earliest BAHCO wrench. This is a generation 1 produced between 1892 and 1902. I is a No 3 which is 12" (30.5cm) long, and shows a handle that is slightly wider at the shaft end. The shaft hole is not original. Wonderful old thing labelled ENKOPINGS MECHANICAL WORKSHOP
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One of the first of the BAHCO adjustables! Cool!!
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Johnek, Did Bahco make a 4 inch version of the alligator handled adjustable combination? Gedore made one.
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There was a 4" alligator and its very rare. Called a No 20 - the same as the 6" version. When it comes up on Swedish EBay they go about $150 AUD
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A not often seen Bahco 52 (10 inch) from 1911-1913. These Generation 2 models are rare
:grin:
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Johnek, I have one of the 4 inch combination adjustable with the alligator on the handle end that is made by Gedore who I think is German. Did they copy the Bahco?
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Lewill2,
Gedore's history; it began in 1919, in the German town of Remscheid, when brothers Karl, Willi and Otto Dowidat gathered to found the small GEDORE TOOL factory
GEDORE; GE -the first two letters of Gebruder - brothers in German, DO, the first two letters of Dowidat and RE - the first letters of Remscheid.
http://www.gedore.com.br/en/historia.php
interesting history, Frank
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Johnek, I have one of the 4 inch combination adjustable with the alligator on the handle end that is made by Gedore who I think is German. Did they copy the Bahco?
I dont know, but Bahco registered the trade mark for the "shark" end in Aug 1922, so I guess it depends when the Gedore was designed as to who copied who
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I finally scored a very desirable Bahco No 20 - a 4" "Shark" (or HAJNYCKEL in Swedish) from Swedish EBay.
Interesting to note that there are a bunch of known collectors out there - the same names come up time and time again when bidding on these wrenches - and everyone gets quite excited when something rare pops up amid the dozens of listings for the ordinary stuff. It's hard enough to sell a common Bahco for $5 - but when a good one comes up the price rockets!
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Great score!
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I forgot I never posted a picture of my Gedore.
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Following up on this thread about the Bahco No 20 (Shark or Hajnyckel model) marked 4". Now that I have it I can tell you it is actually 6" long.
As you can see from the photo that shows the so-called 4" No 20 next to two 6" No 20s and a 6" No 30, they are the same length, namely 6".
My theory is, there is not any real 4" Bahco shark, and this issue must have resulted from mis-labelling.
Anyway, if you go by the numbering convention used at the time, a 4" would end in a 9, so a real 4" would have to be a No 19!
You can see from the recent results on Tradera that these are quite valuable, selling for a LOT more than the regular 6" No 20 or No 30. My opinion on this is be careful, it is a mislabel after all and so not one that belongs in a correct series of wrenches, and while they don't come up that often they are not particularly rare either.
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Hello Bahco wrench enthusiasts,
We know that Generation 4 Bahcos were produced in two periods, 1954-1968 (alongside Generation 3) and 1969-1983. They are characterised by a handle which is wider at the end. The two types in each period were left hand (with the number 6) and right hand (with the number 9) threaded. The early ones were 669-675 (4" to 15") and 969-975 (4" to 15") and the later ones were identical but had a "0" prefix.
This is a summary of how easy or difficult it is to collect each of the 4 types, based on years of collection experience and observation:
0669 - 0675 - this series is by far the most common generation 4, and would make up 80% of the wrenches you come across
969 - 975 - the next most common, produced in the early period. Probably 15% of series 4 wrenches are this type
669 - 675 - harder to find, these never seemed to make it to Australia or the UK and are almost always only found on Swedish Ebay - possibly the next 4%
0969 - 0975 - These must have been produced in very small numbers, as they are very hard to find. Less than 1 in a 100 will be this type (ie 1%) and its not generally known that they are rare because they are often mistaken for the 0669-0675 series
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Further to a previous post about a mythical 4" Bahco Shark, here is a No30 which is labelled 4" but is in fact 6" in length.
A number 30 is well known to be 6", as it should be by the labelling convention where (for the 15 deg heads) No69=4", No70=6", No71=8", etc. In the sharks (or Haj), we had No20 and later No30 as 6" models, then No21=8", No22=10" and No23=12".
Another very interesting example of a mislabel is this early generation 3, 12" No13, which never existed in any catalogue of course. It should be a No73 which would make it a nice but rather ordinary wrench from around 1924. Instead, this one is extremely rare and quite valuable.
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Hi. Just signed in. Amazing tools you have. I bought that 4" shark from flea market for 4€ and also wondering that 4" because from same market I bought 6" bahco and the lenght was about same. For some reason pictures are not loading well..
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I think file size is small enough now.
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And another.
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Nice finds! Welcome to Tool Talk. If you get a chance go to the introduction thread and tell us about yourself!
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Hi guys. Now when we have some experts here, I would like to hear that am I right about the production year of this oldie bahco wrench.
It has those inch markings and I was told that they was dropped away in 1924. Is that so?? If it is, it's more awesome to work with that over 90years old peace.
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Any idea how old are theše bahco tools?? Pipewrenches 141&142 with bahco stockholm markings and ratchet with green end.
I have heard that mayby Facom have made that ratchet. I'm not sure. I think it's from 80's or 90's. Any information how I know the production year??
Same issue with those pipewrenches. I know they are not that old, but it would be nice to know how old are they. I faund them from two differen flea markets in a same day.
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The Bahco 82 shown is the first of the 45 degree 'offset' models which were made from 1914 until 1924. They were made alongside the BAHCO-CLYBURN 15 degree models, and are probably the most desirable of these type, numbered 81 to 85. They are also characterised by a rounder fixed jaw, though it is sometimes harder to see the difference in jaw shape on the 45 degree models. The roundness of the fixed jaw in the BAHCO_CLYBURN models is more pronounced. After these you will find the whitworth size (5/8 inch in the case of a Bahco 82 - 10 inch) was dropped from the stamping. Your nice wrench has a matrix number 22 (I think) which places it somewhere in the middle to later of that period, possibly around 1920.
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These pipe wrenches are found in my original Bahco catalogue which is dated 1929, so they must be before that
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Thank you for answers. I didn't know those pipewrenches were that old. Did they changed the model somehow after that 1929? Is it possible that they have made that same model longer because those wrenches doesn't feel that old on hands, altought it's nice to own a piece of that history, when nowadays almost all those bahco tools are made more or less cheap materials and quality isn't the same anymore.
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This 6" Hajnyckel is very rare. Sold in May 2015 for AUD $275.
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I live in NSW, Australia and I'm currently packing to move when I came across an item I have been holding onto for maybe 30 years
It is an 24" Bahco 86 Wrench - Made in Sweden as pictured, it is marked as the 10B model making it very old generation 3 best I can find.
I was wondering if anyone might be in a position to give me an indication as to its value please
Cheers
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Hi,
That Bahco 86 is a fairly common Generation 3 but not an older one otherwise it would have A/B BA HJORTH on the back. I think the "10B" could be 103. Its worth about $125AUD in today's market. They come up reasonably regularly on EBay.
Regards,
joHn
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Thanks John for the quick reply and info
Having a closer look under a magnifier it definitely has a straight left edge which would make it a 10B not 103
Its hard to believe the condition and especially the quality of a tool so old !!
Cheers
Sean
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With the move I am doing, finding it hard to decide - keeping it in storage or try to sell it as I never used it other than to easily loosen a nut on a towball once that no other tool would even budge!!
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I suggest you keep it - hang it above your workbench and collect a nice set of generation 3's - You'll need a 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 and a 30" 86. The 10B on this one is the matrix number which tells you that the mould has been replaced 10 times. Maybe the B was the second type of mould for the 10th series of 86 produced? Either way it proves it's a later model. The most sought after ones have a number 1 which mean they were the very first of that series.
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Here is a nice Bahco 22, a 10" Shark that shows the double patent numbers and a matrix number 1. This makes it highly desirable and probably close to the start of production, 1928. It has a few usage marks on it and some evidence of ownership markings which detract from its value a bit, but still a very nice collector tool and becoming hard to find
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In terms of the condition of a Bahco wrench, we all know it makes a big difference to the price if the wrench is in good order verses one that is worn. If it appears unused, a wrench will command a high price, and even higher if it has its original box. Factors that affect condition include normal wear and tear but particularly any non-original markings or drilled holes. Sometimes the old personalising markings seem to give the item a nice character, but I would stay away completely from any wrench that has non-original holes (as many of the early gen 1 wrenches have as they didn't originally have a shaft hole). If its twisted or bent or if the knurl is hard to use - don't buy it unless its a rare one.
But what value an original box? A good example are the two Bahco 73 below from 1924-1953 (late in that period). The un-boxed one I bought for AUD$31 and its excellent - absolutely as new. The same one, possibly not as good though claimed to be unused sold at about the same time for AUD$60. So the existence of a box seems to double the price. Well, boxes are rare so that seems about right to me.
Another example of a nice Bahco 72 with original box selling also shown
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These pictures illustrate some differences in markings for Generation One BAHCO models (third series 1910-1915). It is interesting to note that it is generally believed that the shaft hole was placed on the later ones of the period, however note that MADE IN ENKOPING, a label on the No2 in the picture that is normally associated with earlier wrenches such as second series, HAS an original shaft hole.
There seems to be considerable variability in labeling, and establishing patterns to enable more accurate dating of wrenches is not always simple, particularly when you find these odd ones that don't seem to fit into the mainstream...
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Who said vintage wrenches aren't useful?
Here's a photo of a No 3 15" (1910-1915) in use after changing a set of track rod ends in my Triumph Stag.
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A vintage 8" Bahco 51 wrench sold on Swedish EBay (Aug 2015) for a record price of 2027SEK (equivalent to $322 AUD).
This model is called a generation 2 wrench (1911-1913) and is the most collectable of all the Bahco, with the next most expensive Bahco probably being a large 12" Shark wrench No 23, or a 12" double header 73/72 at about the same value around $200. Put that in perspective, when an ordinary 8" Generation 3 would fetch no more than $20.
There seem to be just a few collectors worldwide interested in collecting Bahco, with the same names coming up over and over on auction sites. Previously another generation 2 Bahco 52 sold for 1500SEK ($238) and that was considered high. These prices show that when you get just a couple of keen bidders the price of collectables quickly enters bubble territory - just like Sydney Real Estate! In this case the prize was won by a Finnish collector known to have quite a sizeable collection, including at least 4 Generation 2 Bahcos. Price may not be an issue to the collector however, as he probably doesnt intend to ever sell it. If he did, it would unlikely ever see these values again, or at least until collecting Bahco becomes more of a mainstream activity.
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Prices of wrenches will vary somewhat at auction depending on who is bidding, but they generally sell within a reasonable limit based on rarity and size. Still, some people have no idea. Have a look at these two ads. The first is a nice chrome Bahco 4" 669 which recently sold for 46 SEK - thats about $8. That is a fairly low price as I have seen these regularly go for around $15. Here is another unsold Bahco 969, on offer for a starting bid of $120. It is not a rare model, nor does it look in especially great condition. In fact the 669 is a bit harder to find as the 6 series only ever seems to appear in Sweden, and you can generally ad a bit to the regular price for chrome as well. Go figure
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There are a number of variations of the 8 inch hajnyckel or 'shark' Bahco No 31 worth mentioning. The standard 31 is very common and not particularly valuable. Later models had a hole near the tail and even later ones were called model 32 and came with a printed-on labelling. Again, these are good to have in a collection but relatively cheap to obtain. You will find some marked VOLVO or SAAB and perhaps these are a bit more valuable as they are not as common. The car enthusiasts love them. The most valuable model 31 by far is the earliest, which will have the whitworth size markings 5/8 x 8 IN and twin patent numbers on the back. These are hard to find and very valuable, perhaps worth 10 times the standard model. Even more so if it has a matrix number 1 (probably will have).
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Great info! Thanks for sharing.
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Ultimately the most desirable wrench is one that its exactly as original, with no "after-market" markings or modifications. However, some are more acceptable than others. You may find Bahco with three crowns - these are marking placed on the wrench when new by the army. Three crown markings are actually quite sought-after. Other wrenches have personalised markings that seem to give the wrench some character - some examples below. It is better if these are not on the wrench but seem to be acceptable. They are part of the item's history.
Some wrenches might be found with additional holes or modified jaws (Ground down). These should be AVOIDED - they are almost worthless!
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A pre-1950's Bahco 87 model (30") surrounded by a swarm of the littlest Bahco, namely 4" models of various years from 1926 to late 1980s.
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Bahco Hajnickel Nos 23 (12") to 20 (6") and a 30 (6")
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A set of Bahco 31s from early, showing duel patent numbers to late with shaft hole
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A set of Bahco double head models 72/73, 71/72, 70/71 and 9/10
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Back in the box
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Very nice collection Johnek!
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hello Johnek, you have a very nice grouping there, I like the picture with the 30 inch wrench with the smaller grouped around them.
thanks for sharing. Frank from Massachusetts
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Hello, Did Bahco eventually become Hjorth Lathe & Tool Co.? I have a No. 1 Micrometer Depth Gauge made by them. Thanks, Lou
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BA HJORTH was the person who took the design of the wrench by JP Johannson and made it into a business. BA HJORTH & CO was shortened to BAHCO and so that's where the name came from.
I have not heard of Hjorth Lathe & Tool Co.
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Hello, I should have included a photo the first time.Interestingly, the raised lettering on the beam of the tool reads REMINGTON TOOL & MCH CO BOSTON USA PAT PEND. Regards, Lou
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Hello, Here are the photos., Lou
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Hjorth Lathe & Tool Co is a different Company. They were in Woburn Mass. and Bahco is Swedish.
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Hello, Bill. I realize they both operated on 2 different continents. I was just curious about a possible family connection. Both men were in business from around the late 1800's into the early 1900's. Patent #547853 was granted to Johan Johanssen (designer of the BAHCO wrench), on Oct. 15, 1895, and Patent #540984 was granted to Henrich Hjorth on June 11th, 1895, for a breast drill.There was also a Patent #738444 issued to A W Hjorth for a plier type nut wrench (looks more like a pliers) Probably a coincidence, maybe mechanical genius ran in the family? just thought it would be fun to look into. Regards, Lou
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There is no connection that I'm aware of other than having a seeming popular last name.
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Hello, Bill. After doing a little more digging, I came up empty. I will go with you on Hjorth being a common name in that region & era. Thanks, Lou
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A rather rare an unusual Bahco 11A from 1928
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Just purchased a lovely Bahco 55, Generation 2 from 1911-1913.
This is an 18 inch model. Seems that any Generation 2 model only appears a few times per year on Swedish EBay and they are hotly contested at auction.
This will be my most expensive acquisition by a long way.
The most common generation 2 seems to be a 10" Bahco 52, rare enough while any other model appears less frequently.
More photos when it arrives
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Here is a very unusual double shark model Bahco 165
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In the U.S. we call them alligator wrenches. I imagine you don't run across a nice one like that very often.
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Congrats on the 18-inch adjustable and the double alligator John. They both look like great wrenches. Was the "double shark" as you call it made in a range of different sizes?
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Congrats on the 18-inch adjustable and the double alligator John. They both look like great wrenches. Was the "double shark" as you call it made in a range of different sizes?
I dont know I'm just starting to discover these but yes I think they would be different sizes. I'll ask the seller what the length of this one is. I assume that as its No 165 it would be 18" as the numbering would conform with 5=18" but that seems huge!
In the meantime, check out these pictures of the very oldest model Bahco 3 (15") from 1892-1902. Notice how the shaft is wider at the end.
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Nice! A very simple / elegant design
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Here is one you dont see very often, a 30" Generation 2 No. 68 from 1913-1914.
The largest and certainly one of the rarest Bahco presented in great condition. A bargain at 500 Euros!
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Great condition indeed! It looks to have spent the last 100 years in a vault somewhere. Congrats!
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Well no I didn't end up buying the Bahco 68. Maybe I should have - its so unusual and in such great condition. But just when I let a few full price items pass due to budget restraints, BOOM! Up comes this set on Australian EBay. I popped on it straight away! What do you notice about this set? :grin:
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is that the same type 30 inch wrench in that group ?
is that a matched set ?
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Is it that the second from left has an offset head?
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This is not a matched set by any means. The 6" is a 1924-1953 generation 3. The 8" offset No 81 is from 1924-1940 and nothing special. The 10" 72 is also a very ordinary tool from the same period. The 0973 is actually mildly interesting. Its from 1969-1983 and is a generation 4 model. You can tell by the tapered shaft. There were 4 varieties: The earlier ones from 1954-1968 were 973 and 673 (RH and LH) and the later ones (1969-1983) were 0673 and 0973. The '3' in each case is for the 12" size (1=8", 2=10", 3=12", 4=15", 5=18"). Now it just so happens that the 067* series were very common, followed by 97* and then 67* (these only ever found in Sweden), while the 097* are really hard to find. It has taken me years to collect a set of the 097* series.
But the gem in this collection is of course the No 54, its a rare 15" generation 2 model from 1911-1913 and the first one I have seen on Australian EBay for as long as I have been looking. What I have found is that in Sweden the rarity and value of these items is much better known. This wrench would sell for $500 AUD there easily; while in Australia, sellers tend not to know what they have. And so here is a valuable and rare Generation 2 bundled in with a bunch of very ordinary Bahco worth $10-$20 each.
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Hello
Bahco 84 is a 15" 45-degree offset wrench made between 1924 and 1940 following the ones labelled Bahco-Clyburn. There were several versions, the earliest had whitworth size markings on them, (eg 1 x 15 IN). If the wrench has a Pat number it is also earlier and more desirable. Middle versions were labelled BAHCO No84 15 IN and the most common later versions just had BAHCO 84 on them. An 84 is not as common as an 83, 82 or 81 and is reasonably desirable because it is BIG. The 85 (18 inch) are the hardest to find. If it has a straight shaft, smooth operation of its knurl, crisp edges on the jaw, and the jaw closes all the way and has no stamps or marks on it then it's even better.
Regards,
joHn
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Here is what I have collected in the last few months.
A Generation 1 Bahco 4 (18 inch) from 1903-1911; A Generation 1 Hajnickel No 23 (12 inch) around 1940, a Bahco-Clyburn No 70 from around the early 20s (with a matrix number of 12 which is one of the highest I've seen on this model), and a rare 6" No 30 tire-lever model (these were later called No 10 which are common). No 30 is most often known as a small 6" shark model.
Collection approaching 200 Bahco now - yes there are a few repeat copies. There's a few Generation 2 models I'm still looking for....
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Looks like you've been doing well sir! I especially like the looks of the big Generation 1 wrench with the offset head. The appearance is quite unique compared to what the standard adjustable wrench looks like today.
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Hello Johnek. First time visiting this thread. I'm very impressed by your collection!
I was wondering if you can give me any information on this wrench, such as exact age.
It's labeled ENKOPINGS MEK WERKSTAD PATENT, with a 1 stamped at the end of the handle.
There is a 6 stamped on the end of the sliding jaw, the size I assume.
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Hi
Lovely early first generation model 1 from first period 1892 to 1903
Let me know if you would like to sell or trade this item
John
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That was fast! Thanks for the quick reply.
I thought it was quite early after looking at some of the patent drawings and the Melbys site Johansson Museum Visit.
This wrench has been in my collection for about 7 months but I was instantly attached to it when I first spotted it. Let me think on that. I have to wonder how many of these are even in the States as most Bahco I see are late models.
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A very early No 82 forging die number 1. The movable jaw has been marked on the "inside" so it's not visible when mounted. Has anyone seen a similar marking on a 82 or any other model?
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Welcome to Tool Talk, JJB !
Find the Introduction Forum and tell us about yourself and your tool interests.
We do have some Bahco enthusiasts here who will help you in your search for information.
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A very early No 82 forging die number 1. The movable jaw has been marked on the "inside" so it's not visible when mounted. Has anyone seen a similar marking on a 82 or any other model?
Looks like early 82 alright though not particularly rare. I must admit I have not seen these markings, mainly because I haven't either dismantled a wrench nor purchased spare jaws. The size marking is usually on the side of the jaw, but not all have them. I would guess the markings moved from where it is on this wrench to be more visible on the jaw at some stage. I would check my collection and get back to you but it's in deep storage at the moment.
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A very early No 82 forging die number 1. The movable jaw has been marked on the "inside" so it's not visible when mounted. Has anyone seen a similar marking on a 82 or any other model?
Apologies for my late reply.
Today I have dismantled one of my Bahco's 82.
There was no number on the inside of the movable jaw,
but there is one on the outside.
Regards,
Henri
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Hello,
Have a look at this Bahco 57. So its a Generation 2 which is highly desirable and rare and its the biggest (30 inch) so it would have to be just about the most desirable collector wrench in Bahco ever. First one I've seen in >5 years of looking on Tradera. What did it sell for? Not nearly enough. Because the owner listed it as Swedish buyers only and refused to change the ad to allow international bidders despite numerous requests, he achieved probably half of its value in the auction. The lucky Swedish buyer got a true bargain. I have encountered this many times - the best source for Vintage Bahco is undoubtedly Tradera - a Swedish EBay - and many sellers in Sweden are reluctant to post overseas. :rolleyes:
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Anyone here owns a No13 or a No431?
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Recently I bought this BAHCO #472 wrench in a local charity shop.
Chrome plated with a double-hex broached 5/8" hanging hole.
Has anyone seen one before?
Regards
Henri
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/855/43630643401_ff331153b7_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29tusdr)BAHCO No. 472 10" adjustable wrench (https://flic.kr/p/29tusdr) by Henri Nasutus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/100761653@N07/), on Flickr
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Recently I bought this BAHCO #472 wrench in a local charity shop.
Chrome plated with a double-hex broached 5/8" hanging hole.
Has anyone seen one before?
Regards
Henri
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/855/43630643401_ff331153b7_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29tusdr)BAHCO No. 472 10" adjustable wrench (https://flic.kr/p/29tusdr) by Henri Nasutus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/100761653@N07/), on Flickr
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1839/43964765202_ba1ce2eaec_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29Z1UZ9)BAHCO No. 472 10" adjustable wrench (https://flic.kr/p/29Z1UZ9) by Henri Nasutus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/100761653@N07/), on Flickr
Nice pickup, Henri! The dual purpose hanging hole is really neat.
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A No. 71/72 double end adjustable. It looks similar to the one above with the jaw markings.
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reverse
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Neat! I've never seen a Bahco double ender.
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Today I bought via "Marktplaats" (owned by eBay) a 24" BAHCO No. 86.
Probably produced around 1950.
Used, but in nice working condition.
Paid € 40.- (ca. $ 47.-).
Regards
Henri
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Finally found a 431 alligator wrench.
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First post...
Trying to add a picture of my Bahco's.
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Nice assortment Targa, WELCOME to Tool Talk.
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Welcome to Tool Talk !
We have some BAHCO collectors here, so they may chime in soon.
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Nice bunch of Bahco's, Targa.
I am one of those Bahco collectors, but I live on the other side of the ocean.
Can you give the sizes or the numbers from the wrenches on the picture ?
Some of my Bahco's can be seen here:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/100761653@N07/albums/72157655471579708
Regards
Henri
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...that other Swedish brand starting with an "S".
Swedish?!
Probably not "Saab," although it meets the criteria.
Early Saab cars were brilliantly engineered nearly-clean-sheet solutions. We owned a 96 for a while, and I particularly admired how the doors met the side rails of the unit body as a simple overlap. No need for fine tuning of panel fit, easy to weatherstrip, and they wouldn't jam up in heavy snow. I found, after a year or so of driving it, that it felt really awkward if you drove it gently, but romped like an excited puppy, and held insane corners like it had magnets underneath tuned for asphalt if you treated the throttle as a toggle switch (off or on; not my original line, stolen from some car magazine). It helped me understand why they were such great winter rally cars. For those not familiar with the "sowbug":
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/51/SAAB_96_1965.jpg/220px-SAAB_96_1965.jpg)
And the toolkit had a really sweet Bahco wrench.
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Nice collection and welcome!
I've been "thinking about" buying one of the Volvo wrenches for ages; I think it's time I finally did.
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Nice collection and welcome!
I've been "thinking about" buying one of the Volvo wrenches for ages; I think it's time I finally did.
With the tire lever handle?
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Welcome to Tool Talk from beautiful Ohio. I really like those alligator combos. :smiley:
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Hello, Targa68. Nice set of wrenches, and welcome to Tool Talk, from Central New York State!! Regards, Lou