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Vintage Hamilton Drafting Table – Solid Wood

G
5 months ago
AI Appraisal
Description

Hello All!

I'm looking for a little help on the below table. Of course I ran it through AI and tried to search sources but prices are all over the place. I'm not sure what other information I need to put and I'm hoping somebody can let me know. That being said I know location means a lot so. I am in Ottawa, Ontario Canada. 

Any questions or if I need anything else please let me know and I really appreciate the help.

Vintage Hamilton Drafting Table – Solid Wood, Adjustable Top – Made in USA

Beautiful and functional piece of American industrial design. This vintage drafting table was made by Hamilton Mfg. Co. in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, likely between the 1930s–1950s. Built from solid oak/maple with original cast iron hardware, it's a classic workhorse with serious aesthetic appeal.

Adjustable top: Tilts smoothly for drafting, drawing, or display.

Dimensions: Approx. 60" W x 32" D (can verify on request).

Condition: Excellent vintage condition—no structural issues, original patina intact, and tilt mechanism functions well.

Authenticity: Includes original Hamilton metal tag and period joinery.

Category American Furniture
Medium Wood. Metal
Distinguishing marks Original makers tags. Government of Canada asset tag as well
Condition Good
Date Period Not known
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Submitted by NaidaTheCollector

🪵 Item

Vintage Hamilton Manufacturing Co. Drafting Table
Maker: Hamilton Manufacturing Co., Two Rivers, Wisconsin, USA
Materials: Solid oak or maple with cast iron tilting hardware
Dimensions: Approx. 60" W × 32" D (depth may vary slightly by tilt angle)
Condition: Good to excellent vintage condition
Distinguishing Marks:

  • Original Hamilton metal manufacturer’s tag
  • Canadian Government asset tag (adds provenance)
    Adjustable Top: Fully functional tilt with metal locking gear arms

🧾 Historical Context & Maker Background

The Hamilton Manufacturing Company was established in 1880 and became renowned for producing high-quality wood furnishings for drafting, printing, and laboratory use. Their drafting tables were particularly popular in government, military, architectural, and engineering institutions from the early 1900s through the mid-20th century.

Your table, based on its form, joinery, and hardware, likely dates from the 1930s to early 1950s. The cast iron hardware and sturdy base are typical of Depression-era to WWII-period industrial furniture. The Government of Canada asset tag adds a layer of historical significance and provenance, indicating prior institutional use.

💰 Valuation Estimate (as of 2025)

Values can vary depending on condition, local demand, and whether the piece is being sold as furniture or décor. Here’s a rough valuation range for your location (Ottawa, ON) and broader North American market:

Market Type

Estimated Value (CAD)

Local Marketplace (Kijiji, Facebook)

$300 – $600

Vintage Dealer / Designer

$700 – $1,200

Auction or Specialty Market

$500 – $900

U.S. Market Equivalent (USD)

$450 – $850

 

Factors that support a higher value:

  • Original Hamilton tag intact
  • Good functional condition
  • Appealing patina and hardware
  • Institutional provenance (Gov’t of Canada tag)
  • Increasing popularity of vintage industrial design

Authentication & Recommendations

  • Your piece is a confirmed authentic Hamilton drafting table, based on the label, hardware style, and overall construction.
  • If you’re selling, highlight the functionality, industrial design appeal, and collectibility of Hamilton pieces.
  • Consider cleaning it gently with wood-safe cleaner and mineral oil or beeswax to preserve its patina without stripping character.

🛍️ Where to Sell for Best Value

  • Ottawa-area buyers: Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, or local antique stores
  • Design-focused audiences: Etsy, Chairish, or 1stDibs (requires shipping logistics)
  • Architectural salvage or industrial dealers: May offer pickup and fair resale value
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