Rare WWI-Era Wing Divider by James Blyde & Co. | English Military Layout Tool c. 1890–1919

For the historian … an English wing divider by James Blyde & Co. of Sheffield, dating to around 1890–1919 and bearing the British broad arrow mark designating government property. This is a rare surviving example of a military-issue tool by a Sheffield maker whose production ended shortly after the First World War, one used within the infrastructure of Britain’s wartime workshop system. Compact, well-proportioned, and visually authoritative, it would display beautifully on a gentleman’s desk, shelf, or workbench.

Wing dividers of this type were standard geometry tools in British military workshops and armaments facilities during the WWI period. They were used to step out repeated dimensions, set offsets from edges, mark bolt circles, and locate drilling centers on metal and timber components for shells, fuses, vehicle parts, rail equipment, and production jigs — the foundational layout work that defined parts before machining and assembly.

James Blyde was an established Sheffield maker active from at least the 1840s, producing cutlery, surgical instruments, and precision steel tools for both trade and institutional supply. The firm traded through successive family partnerships before operating as James Blyde & Co. until James Henry Blyde retired and the company ceased trading shortly after 1919.

Dimensions: 7-1/8” (arm tip to top of hinge); wing: 3-1/2” across
Weight: 6.7 oz.

Condition notes: Good antique condition overall displaying even wear consistent with age and military use. Steel surfaces retain an even, darkened patina with scattered light surface marks throughout. One arm bears stamped maker’s mark reading “JAMES BLYDE & CO SHEFFIELD”; other arm displays British broad arrow government ownership mark. Original graduated scale markings are rubbed and faint in most areas; a stamped “22” is legible on curved wing.  Adjustment screw functions properly, and both arms open, close, and hold position as intended. Screw tab is stamped “SIEGEL / LONDON” and appears to be a later replacement, albeit of some age. No cracks, bends, or structural damage observed. Tool has been lightly waxed.  Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

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