How were GEM rifles originally shipped? Were they boxed in some way?
I ask as I have acquired a Gaggenau (the crossed pistols) heavy GEM in a box. Box fits the rifle perfectly, three brass hinges two swing hooks on the front and a broken central catch. Stencilled on the top and bottom is the word GEM in light blue paint. The serial number is added in by hand on the bottom. Box is professionally made, though needs tom TLC today.
Is this an original Gaggenau GEM box? Anyone know?
Nasty image I fear https://imgur.com/3kf2JNV
Vintage Airguns Gallery
..Above link posted with permission from Gareth W-B
In British slang an anorak is a person who has a very strong interest in niche subjects.
So when did the term GEM come into use? I think this is a GE type 17 or 18. May be a silly question but is that the origin? Gaggenau Eisenwerke .... something..... Though it is always the other way around in German catalogues. I suppose the box could have been made almost any time, it was professionally done nicely dovetailed. Do you know of any original examples?
I see it was called the 'Jewel' http://www.airgunbbs.com/showthread....ing-of-airguns
Last edited by ogilkes; 21-11-2021 at 09:52 PM.
Thank to the invaluable research of John Atkins, we know that the name "GEM" for these early air rifles was coined by A. Arbenz, well known airgun importer and distributor based in Birmingham, at least by 1882 (advert in 1882 Punch magazine). He registered this as a UK trademark in 1884 (reg.no. 38,891), specifically in capitals with the inverted commas.
Does the GEM name on your box lid have the inverted commas? If so then it suggests the box is original, as I doubt if anyone adding the name to a repro' box would think to use these.
Last edited by ccdjg; 22-11-2021 at 09:39 AM.
Gagenau Eisenwerke und Metalfabriken. "GEM". Even if it's not, it should be
The South of England has 2 good things, the M1 and the A1. Both will take you to Yorkshire.
Vintage Airguns Gallery
..Above link posted with permission from Gareth W-B
In British slang an anorak is a person who has a very strong interest in niche subjects.
Thought it was because a lot of this type of rifle were poor performers, and these were looked upon as the best.
Baz
BE AN INDEPENDENT THINKER, DON'T FOLLOW THE CROWD
Maybe so named because when new they were all shiny and glittery with their extensive nickel plating?
Shame most of 'em look bloody awful now.