This extra large hardshell case is a quality piece and modestly priced originally. Made from leather, composite wood, brass, acetate fabric, and other materials.
The handle is made from solid brass and composite wood. It was originally covered with a varnish impregnated paper. Has been reconditioned and polished.
Pictured is the side that you open when the suitcase is lying flat.
Pictured is the side that lies on the bottom when the suitcase is opened. Very few blemishes on the exterior.
Missing one the glides. Can be easily repaired. 0.7 in. wide x 0.25 in. high
These are what the bottom glides look like. Apparently, they are supposed to be nailed in and then the exposed rivet posts are split apart and bent away from each other and then the head is hammered against a metal block on the split rivet side like a clinch nail. Really?
Left side of suitcase. Notice the stitching is still entact.
Right side of suitcase. None of the stitching is split or separating.
The interior is in very good physical condition, but is quite discolored.
The lining has a significant amount of discolored, faded and stained material. It is unlikely this can be repaired. The entire interior has been cleaned and sanitized. No odd smells.
The interior is lined from a semi-synthetic fabric called acetate. Made from cellulose (derived from wood pulp) that is chemically processed to create a soft, silky texture with a glossy appearance.
Looks like there is a small split in the fabric below the label.
1950 advertisement.
1951 advertisement.
White Star Suitcase, Circa 1953
A collection of images from a reconditioned, vintage hardshell suitcase from the atomic age. Luggage isn't exactly considered a collector's item; however, pieces still in good working order and decades old still have value. Modern luggage is only rated to last about 10 years. The suitcase in this gallery is still is in very good condition after 70 years of use. Typically, vintage luggage does not command much money unless it was made by Louis Vuitton or the like.
Dimensions : length 29 in. x height 17 1/2 in. (including 3/4 in. for bottom glides and handle lying flat) x width 8 5/16 in.
Not much is known about the White Star Luggage Corporation. Cannot find any information dated after the year 1951.
The flash from the camera makes the suitcase look more blemished than it really is. You can zoom in on the images if you mouse over them. During autoplay zoom is disabled.
Valued in the range of $75 - $125.