A rare and visually striking pair of antique British mechanical sugar nips, produced in the 1920s by Norton, Thompson & Sons (N T & S) and stamped with the Registered Design number 702274, dating the design to 1923–1924.
These sugar breakers were designed to crack compressed sugar lumps before the widespread use of granulated sugar, using a precise double-pivot mechanism and distinctive star-shaped cutting jaws to break the sugar neatly.
The outer handle is decorated with a bold Art Deco lion emblem — a stylised, angular decorative motif characteristic of early 20th-century British metalwork. This is a design feature, not a maker’s mark, and adds strong period character to the piece.
Measuring 11cm in length, the nips are well-engineered with smooth, functional joints (demonstrated in the accompanying video). A fine example of interwar kitchenalia and an appealing collectible for those interested in mechanical utensils, British silver plate, and Deco-period domestic design.
• Origin: England, c.1920s
• Maker: N T & S (Norton, Thompson & Sons)
• Registered Design Number: 702274
• Material: Silver-plated nickel silver (IPNS)
• Length: 11cm
CONDITION
The joints work smoothly (see demonstration video). Light age-related surface wear to the silver plate, consistent with age and use, but no structural issues. A well-preserved example of this increasingly scarce mechanical form.
OUR ANTIQUE FORAGER ETHOS
We specialise in thoughtfully sourced antique and vintage pieces, chosen for their craftsmanship, character and cultural heritage. Every item is selected to be both beautiful and functional — pieces with history, designed to enrich contemporary homes.
— www.antiqueforager.com Follow for curated antiques, new finds and research highlights.
SHIPPING
Free UK postage. Worldwide delivery available — rates vary by destination and weight. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout. Every item is carefully packed and insured.
