Vintage "Rufford Tablet" Celluloid Portable Writing Pad with Nautical Scene – Early 20th Century
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Step back in time with this charming and highly collectible early 20th-century Rufford Tablet — an exquisite example of vintage portable writing accessories from the Edwardian to interwar period (circa 1910–1930).
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This elegant tablet features a faux tortoiseshell celluloid casing, a popular material of the era known for its durability and attractive marbled finish. The front cover is adorned with a beautifully rendered nautical scene, depicting a ship reflected on tranquil waters under a moonlit sky — a decorative motif that speaks to the romanticism and craftsmanship of the time.
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Opening the tablet reveals a textured silk lining on the inner cover and the original refillable Rufford Tablet notepad, ruled for writing and partially intact. Designed for convenient, on-the-go note-taking, these tablets were marketed to professionals, travellers, and students alike. A small original pencil, cleverly housed along the tablet’s spine, remains with the piece — a rare and delightful survival.
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Key Features:
Maker: Unbranded but titled "The Rufford Tablet"
Date: Estimated between 1910 and 1930
Materials: Faux tortoiseshell celluloid, paper, silk-textured fabric lining, graphite pencil
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Design: Nautical ship scene under moonlight, hand-finished or printed under celluloid cover
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Condition: Good vintage condition with expected wear; some scuffing to edges and loss to the rear cover consistent with age. The artwork remains vibrant, and the tablet retains its original pencil.
Size: 18cm x 9cm
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Features: Replaceable notepad, built-in pencil holder, decorative front panel
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Historical Context: The Rufford Tablet reflects an era when portable writing was an essential part of daily life. Whether used by clerks, students, or travellers, such tablets offered a compact and stylish way to jot down notes, appointments, and thoughts on the move. Items crafted in celluloid were especially prized for their lightweight, attractive appearance and resistance to everyday wear — making this piece both functional and fashionable.
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Collectibility: Vintage writing tablets like this are increasingly sought after by collectors of early office ephemera, vintage stationery, and celluloid accessories. The survival of the original pencil and the decorative front panel in such good visual condition adds significantly to its desirability.
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A beautiful addition to any vintage writing collection, a perfect display piece, or a unique gift for lovers of historical stationery and early 20th-century craftsmanship.
