This unique walking stick was hand carved by a French soldier during the First World War. Coiling around the shaft is a finely carved snake, a powerful symbol often associated with vigilance, danger, and survival.
To escape the relentless stress and monotony of wartime life, soldiers often turned to creativity, repurposing available materials into what is now known as trench art. These deeply personal objects were made using limited tools and resources, resulting in raw, expressive works that reflect both hardship and resilience. Each piece tells a human story shaped by uncertainty, longing, and endurance.
This cane carries a tangible sense of history and would make a striking centerpiece in any World War I or military collection.
After more than a century, the cane remains in good condition and shows only minor signs of use. Over time, it has developed a beautiful natural patina that enhances its character and authenticity. The surface has been treated with antique wax, providing a protective layer and a subtle, soft sheen.
This antique brass telescope features four extendable tubes and comes with its original leather case. Produced in Europe in the late 19th century, it was likely used aboard a ship, making it a fine example of nautical craftsmanship from the period.
A striking addition to any maritime collection, the telescope remains both charming and functional – and could still serve admirably when scanning the horizon for pirates.
After more than a century, it is in good overall condition, showing signs of age and use. Over time, the brass has developed a rich, natural patina that enhances its character and historic appeal.
Measurements:
extended lenght: 58.5 cm
retracted length: 20.5 cm
Diameter lens: 4.5 cm
Length case: 21 cm
These iconic “bear paw” snowshoes were handmade by Snocraft Inc. in Norway, Maine. They were issued by the U.S. Army during the Second World War to the 10th Mountain Division, which fought in the Italian Alps.
Their design was inspired by traditional Native American craftsmanship and features classic rawhide latticework stretched over wooden frames.
These snowshoes would make striking decorative pieces above a fireplace or displayed on the wall of a cabin, lodge, or man cave.
After more than 70 years, they remain in worn condition and show clear signs of age and use. They have been carefully cleaned and treated with antique wax to provide a protective layer and a subtle glossy finish. All leather parts have been treated with grease.
This antique bronze letter opener dates from the early 1900s and depicts a Native American chief.
It makes a striking decorative piece and would look great displayed on a desk or as part of a rustic or vintage style interior.
After more than a century, the letter opener remains in good condition, showing only minor signs of use. Over time, it has developed a beautiful natural patina that adds to its character and charm.
Vintage 1940 Swiss Army cowhide mountaineer’s rucksack – “Haaraffe Tornister”
This rare and iconic Swiss Army rucksack, nicknamed the Haaraffe Tornister (“hairy ape backpack”), was issued in 1940 and has since become a true classic in our collection.
Originally introduced in 1898, this model remained virtually unchanged until 1950 – testament to its practical and durable design.
The rucksack features multiple interior compartments that unfold for easy access, as well as a small external pocket on the front. The exterior is made of genuine cowhide, which gives the bag its distinctive look and German nickname. The interior is lined with sturdy canvas for extra durability.
Whether you’re a collector of military gear or simply appreciate vintage craftsmanship, this Haaraffe Tornister is a striking piece of alpine history.
After more than 80 years, this piece has stood the test of time. It shows visible signs of age and use, consistent with its history. Both shoulder straps have been replaced and are not original. The rucksack has been treated and is completely free of any insect activity.
Measurements:
Height: 39 cm
Width: 37 cm
Depth: 13 cm
This distinctive antique tobacco pipe was carved from meerschaum and shaped as a bull’s head, featuring a stem made of natural horn. It was crafted in France in the early 1900s.
A striking piece that would make an excellent addition to any pipe collection or cabinet of curiosities.
After more than a century, the pipe remains in used condition and shows visible signs of age and wear. Over time, it has developed a beautiful patina that enhances its character and authenticity. Please note that the tip of one horn is chipped, as shown in the photos.
Vintage 1930s French brass pocket compass with folding cover
This vintage French pocket compass was made by Zambs in the French city of Lyon and features a brass case with a folding protective cover. One side is equipped with a transit stud, allowing the needle to be locked in place when not in use.
A versatile piece that can be taken along on hikes, displayed as a small decorative object, or creatively turned into a unique necklace.
The compass is in good working condition and functions properly, pointing north accurately. Due to age and use, the brass case has developed a beautiful oxidized patina, adding to its authentic vintage character.
The Bézard Kompass was a highly regarded navigational instrument, originally produced in Austria by Lufft. Renowned for its reliability and precision, it was widely adopted by military forces across several European countries. This particular example was issued by the German army during the Second World War.
Nearly a century later, this compass remains a beautiful and functional piece of history. It would make a practical companion for a hiking trip, while also being a distinctive addition to any vintage or military collection.
The compass shows visible signs of age and use, consistent with its history, but remains in good working condition and still points north accurately.
This rare and characterful can opener dates to the early 20th century and is designed in the shape of a sardine, reflecting the ingenuity and playful charm of early kitchen tools.
Originally a practical utensil, it now makes a wonderful decorative object—ideal for a rustic kitchen display, a collector’s shelf, or a cabinet of curiosities.
Despite its age, the opener remains in good condition. Decades of use have given it a rich, time-worn patina that enhances its antique appeal. The surface has been carefully treated with antique wax to preserve the metal and provide a subtle, protective sheen.
These vintage ice axes were produced in Premana in the 1960s by the renowned Italian mountaineering equipment maker CAMP – Interalp. The blades still bear the original maker’s stamps — clear marks of authenticity and heritage.
Once essential tools for navigating icy alpine terrain, they now stand as remarkable pieces of mountaineering history. They make striking decorative elements in any interior or a unique highlight in a collection of vintage sporting gear or alpine memorabilia.
After 60 years, the ice axes remain in worn but solid condition. Years of use have given them a rugged, oxidized patina that enhances their historical character. To preserve their surface, they have been treated with antique wax, adding both protection and a subtle, aged sheen.
Measurements:
Length: 75 cm
Width: 23 cm
These axes are sold separately — the listed price is per piece.
This vintage sailor’s knife was crafted by Rich. A. Herder in Solingen, Germany, a city world renowned for its high quality blades. The knife features a folding steel blade and an oak handle with a characteristic anchor inlay, symbolizing its nautical heritage.
It’s the perfect pocket knife for everyday tasks or as a collectible piece for maritime enthusiasts.
After nearly a century, the knife remains in used condition, showing signs of age and wear consistent with its history. It has been carefully treated with antique wax to protect the surface and provide a subtle, natural sheen.
Length with blade folded in: 10 cm
Length with blade folded open: 18 cm
