c.1884 Ives, CI Clockwork Locomotive in Original Wooden Box
This awesome 19th century clockwork cast iron locomotive was manufactured by Ives nearly 120 years ago. It's one of only a handful of mechanically powered locomotives listed in Rick Ralston's book on Cast Iron Floor Trains. The company also produced an unpowered version. Even more incredible; it comes complete with its super rare original wooden box with factory label and sliding cover. The toy measures only 7" long and was the smallest model produced by Ives. Embossed on its left side just below the engineers cab are the words "PAT. AUG. 19.84". It's painted black with red and gold trim. The pilot (front) wheels are japanned. The chassis interior is brass. It comes with a crank-style brass and steel key, which, although not original to the toy could be just as old. Best of all it works great! The wooden box was dove-tailed joined. The sliding cover was tongue and grooved. It still has most of its original factory label remaining. It was printed with the name, catalog number, company initials, patent date, and date of manufacture (obscured). One previous owner also added some small scratched letters and a 1943 date. The original catalog number for the locomotive by itself was 19-9. It was also available with an optional 3½" long tender as catalog No. 19-10. In fact the box label indicates it as No. 19-10 "with tender". There are several possible scenarios for this. It could've become lost. This is a minor point since it's the locomotive and covered box which are the most difficult and therefore important to find. It's also possible that the same box and label were used regardless if it included the tender. Lastly consider the source of the toy. I purchased it from Bertoia Auctions who listed it as "Ives Boxed Clockwork Locomotive". Size: 7". Sold: Jan. 2012
Price Sold: $ 1975
