Oh, how fabulous is this! A wonderfully elegant Art Deco folding lorgnette dating to circa 1925–1935, beautifully made in gleaming Platinin — a period white-metal alloy created to imitate the luxurious silvery appearance of platinum.

RARE FIND ! ART DECO ELEGANCE | Circa 1925–1935 “PLATININ” Folding Lorgnette.

Oh, how fabulous is this! A wonderfully elegant Art Deco folding lorgnette dating to circa 1925–1935, beautifully made in gleaming Platinin — a period white-metal alloy created to imitate the luxurious silvery appearance of platinum.

The lorgnette features two perfectly round lenses cleverly engineered to fold together when not in use. A small mechanism releases the second lens, transforming this wonderfully compact accessory into a functional pair of handheld spectacles. The long, slender handle is particularly lovely, finished with delicate scrollwork detailing and an elongated loop from which the lorgnette could originally have been suspended from a chain or ribbon.

PLATININ Despite its rather glamorous name, Platinin should not be confused with platinum. It was a high-quality white metal used particularly during the early 20th century for jewellery, spectacles and fashionable accessories where the bright appearance of platinum was desired without its considerable cost.

During the 1920s and 1930s, lorgnettes were as much a fashionable accessory as they were practical eyewear — carried to the theatre, opera, soirées and other social occasions. There is something deliciously dramatic about raising one of these to inspect the room!

Marked simply “PLATININ.”

A fabulous little survivor from the glamour of the Art Deco era, approaching a century old and still wonderfully stylish today. 

*chain not included*

Measurements :The lorgnette measures 11 cm x 4.4cm and weight of 27 grams.