10 Vintage Chrome and Bakelite Kitchen Gadgets Collectors Love
Chrome and Bakelite are iconic materials that evoke the charm of mid-century kitchens. Chrome, with its mirror-like finish, adds a touch of sophistication, while Bakelite, an early form of plastic, is cherished for its sturdiness and bright, bold colors. These materials became popular in the design of kitchen gadgets, merging practicality with a modern aesthetic. Today, collectors seek these items for their nostalgic value and collectible appeal.
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Sunbeam Mixmaster 9-Speed Stand Mixer
Released in the late 1940s, the Sunbeam Mixmaster 9-Speed Stand Mixer quickly became a staple in American kitchens. This stand mixer featured a shiny chrome base and Bakelite handles, providing both aesthetic appeal and durability. Its primary function was to mix, beat, and whip ingredients for baking, making it a beloved kitchen tool. Collectors appreciate the mixer’s vintage design and its status as an iconic mid-century appliance. Well-preserved models typically sell for $100 to $300, depending on the condition and included attachments.
The Sunbeam Mixmaster is prized for its high-quality motor and efficient performance, which helped revolutionize home baking. Its chrome body remains visually striking, while the Bakelite handles offer a comfortable grip. Many collectors seek out versions with original beaters, mixing bowls, and packaging, which increase the item’s value. The mixer not only serves as a functional piece but also as a piece of kitchen history. For vintage kitchen enthusiasts, owning a Sunbeam Mixmaster is like owning a piece of mid-century design.
Dazey Ice Crusher
The Dazey Ice Crusher, introduced in the 1940s, featured a robust chrome body and Bakelite handle, making it both stylish and functional. Its main function was to crush ice for cocktails and other drinks, an essential gadget for entertaining. Collectors are drawn to its classic design, which reflects the post-war era’s love for sleek, practical kitchen tools. Depending on the condition, these ice crushers range from $40 to $100 in value, with rarer models fetching higher prices.
This ice crusher was designed to make the process of crushing ice quick and easy, an ideal tool for hosting gatherings. The chrome body ensures durability, while the Bakelite handle provides a comfortable, secure grip. The combination of these materials also gives the ice crusher a distinctive look that appeals to collectors. Many collectors appreciate its functionality and nostalgic value, especially when it remains in working condition. These ice crushers are a classic example of mid-century kitchen gadgets that combine practicality with style.
Art Deco Bakelite and Chrome Toast Rack
Released in the 1930s, this Art Deco-inspired Bakelite and chrome toast rack was a popular item in many kitchens of the time. Designed to hold toast upright and prevent it from becoming soggy, the rack featured an elegant combination of chrome and colorful Bakelite. Its geometric shapes and bold design made it a standout piece in any kitchen. Today, collectors seek out these racks for their unique style, with prices typically ranging from $100 to $300, depending on the rarity of the design.
This toast rack was both a practical tool for storing toast and a decorative item in the kitchen. The chrome base provided durability, while the Bakelite handles added a pop of color and style. The rack’s design embodies the glamour of the Art Deco period, making it a desirable collectible. Many collectors appreciate the quality and craftsmanship that went into creating these vintage racks. They are often sought after for their nostalgic appeal and their ability to enhance a collection of mid-century kitchen gadgets.
KitchenAid Bakelite and Chrome Potato Masher
Released in the 1950s, the KitchenAid Bakelite and chrome potato masher was designed to provide easy, efficient mashing of potatoes and other vegetables. Featuring a chrome head and a Bakelite handle, this masher was both sturdy and comfortable to use. Collectors appreciate this item for its durability and timeless design, with prices typically ranging from $40 to $100 depending on its condition.
The chrome head of this masher was built to last, easily handling tough vegetables like potatoes. The Bakelite handle provided a firm, comfortable grip, ensuring ease of use during meal preparation. Many collectors value these mashers for their practicality, as they were essential in many kitchens during the mid-20th century. The masher’s vintage design, combined with its usefulness, makes it a popular item in any collection of retro kitchen gadgets. If in good condition, it can also be used as a functional tool in modern kitchens.
Bakelite and Chrome Shore Gratt Ice Cream Scoop
Introduced in the 1950s, this ice cream scoop became a popular choice in many kitchens for its functionality and style. The scoop featured a chrome head and a colorful Bakelite handle, which made it both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Collectors love this item for its design, which reflects the mid-century era, with prices ranging from $40 to $100 depending on its condition.
The chrome head of the ice cream scoop made it easy to serve even the hardest ice cream, while the Bakelite handle provided a comfortable grip. This item was especially popular for families who enjoyed homemade ice cream or frequently entertained guests. Collectors value this scoop not only for its practicality but also for the vintage charm it brings to any kitchen collection. Its collectible value increases when it is in good condition and retains its original parts.
Westinghouse Bakelite and Chrome Meat Grinder
Westinghouse released this Bakelite and chrome meat grinder in the 1940s, making it a popular tool for those who enjoyed grinding their own meat at home. The grinder featured a chrome body and a Bakelite handle, offering durability and ease of use. It was designed to grind meat for sausages, burgers, and other recipes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Collectors today love these grinders for their nostalgic value and unique design, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $150.
The combination of chrome and Bakelite made this grinder both sturdy and stylish. The chrome body ensured long-lasting use, while the Bakelite handle provided a comfortable grip during the grinding process. Many collectors appreciate the craftsmanship and the functional design that has withstood the test of time. This grinder is often sought after by vintage kitchenware enthusiasts who love the combination of practical use and historical charm. In good condition, these meat grinders continue to be highly valued in the world of collectible kitchen gadgets.
Bakelite and Chrome Juicer by Breville
Breville introduced its Bakelite and chrome citrus juicer in the 1950s, which quickly became a favorite among those who enjoyed fresh juice. The juicer featured a chrome base for durability and a Bakelite handle for ease of use. Its function was to extract juice from citrus fruits, offering a simple yet effective way to enjoy fresh, homemade juice. Collectors love this juicer for its vintage appeal and functional design, with prices ranging from $75 to $200 depending on the model.
This juicer made the process of juicing citrus fruits quick and easy, perfect for breakfast or as part of a healthy snack. The combination of chrome and Bakelite ensured the juicer was both durable and attractive, making it a desirable piece for collectors. Today, this juicer is valued not only for its practical use but also for its historical significance in the world of vintage kitchen gadgets. Well-preserved models with original parts and packaging can fetch higher prices. The Breville juicer is a great example of mid-century design that is still appreciated for its quality and style.
Ice Cube Tray by Gibson
The Gibson Bakelite and chrome ice cube tray, released in the 1950s, became a staple in many homes for creating ice cubes. This tray featured a chrome base and Bakelite handle, which made it easy to release the ice cubes with a simple twist. It was known for its durability and ability to produce large, perfectly shaped ice cubes. Collectors appreciate these trays for their vintage design, with prices typically ranging from $30 to $75.
The ice tray’s chrome body ensured it could withstand repeated use, while the Bakelite handle made it easy to operate. This item was a favorite for families who wanted to keep drinks cool, and it remains a nostalgic piece for collectors today. The value of the tray increases if it is in excellent condition and includes the original packaging. Many collectors enjoy the functionality of this gadget alongside its stylish, retro appearance. The Gibson ice cube tray is a practical and collectible item that stands the test of time.
Potato Peeler by Zyliss
Released in the 1950s, the Zyliss Bakelite and chrome potato peeler quickly became popular for its ease of use and efficient performance. The peeler featured a chrome blade for durability and a Bakelite handle for a secure, comfortable grip. Its main function was to peel potatoes quickly, a useful task for anyone preparing meals. Collectors love this tool for its classic design and functional simplicity, with prices ranging from $30 to $70.
The Zyliss potato peeler was designed to withstand years of use, making it a practical addition to any kitchen. The chrome blade stayed sharp over time, while the Bakelite handle ensured a comfortable grip during use. Collectors are drawn to this item not only for its functionality but also for its retro aesthetic. A well-maintained peeler in original condition can fetch higher prices, especially if it includes the original box. Zyliss’s reputation for durable, high-quality kitchen tools makes this potato peeler a favorite among vintage gadget enthusiasts.
Bakelite and Chrome Egg Timer by KitchenAid
KitchenAid introduced the Bakelite and chrome egg timer in the 1950s, designed to help cooks achieve the perfect boiled egg. The timer featured a sleek chrome finish and a Bakelite dial, which was easy to turn to the desired time. Its function was to alert the user when the egg had reached the perfect cooking time. Collectors appreciate this item for its practicality and elegant design, with prices ranging from $30 to $60.
The KitchenAid egg timer was designed for accuracy, ensuring that eggs were cooked to perfection every time. The chrome finish gave it a polished, timeless look, while the Bakelite dial was both functional and visually appealing. This vintage egg timer is often sought after by collectors who appreciate its simple yet effective design. It remains a useful tool in modern kitchens, though many collectors display it as a decorative item. KitchenAid’s commitment to quality design is reflected in this iconic piece of kitchen history.
Collecting Chrome and Bakelite kitchen gadgets offers a wonderful way to embrace the elegance and efficiency of mid-century design. Their enduring quality and aesthetic appeal make them highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.