Vintage 30s Swank Enamel Stripes Pot Metal Tie Clasp

Measuring a touch over 2 ˝” wide, it is marked “Pat. Pend. Swank Klip” on the back, which dates it with wonderful precision to 1936, between May of that year, when design patent 100,592 was filed, and July, when it was issued.

The designer/inventor was Lawrence E. Baer, younger brother of one of the founders of the Attleboro Manufacturing Company, which 18 years after its huge success with Kum-a-Part cuff buttons (also invented by Lawrence) morphed (also in 1936) into Swank Products, Inc. The clever roller at one end of the diamond-shaped clip on back, which Lawrence invented in 1932 (Pat #1874852), was meant to ease removal of the clasp while its corrugated surface helped to grip a tie’s fabric when attached.

A pivotal design in men’s tie jewelry as well as a wonderful example of American ingenuity, this tie clasp is in excellent condition.

NOTE: Please double-click on any photo to enlarge for best detail.

Proud Member of the VFG Vintage Fashion Guild

Item ID: step34