Vintage 16 Inch Double Open End Wrench

Large vintage double open-end wrench measuring about 16 inches long, with heavy forged steel construction, worn black finish, and honest shop wear. The ends are marked 7/8 and 1, while the actual jaw openings measure approximately 1-7/16” and 1-5/8”. Those dimensions are consistent with a historical sizing convention based on nominal fastener diameter rather than the wrench opening itself, including American heavy-hex fastener dimensions. Additional marking appears to read G.B. 41 or G.B. 4 1; maker and specific application remain unidentified. Cleaned and stabilized while preserving the original working patina.

Detailed Description

This is a large vintage double open-end wrench with a heavy forged steel body and worn black industrial finish. It measures approximately 16 inches overall and shows the honest wear expected from an old working tool.

The wrench is marked 7/8 on one end and 1 on the other. Those numbers do not describe the actual jaw openings. The openings measure approximately 1-7/16 inches and 1-5/8 inches, respectively.

Those measurements are significant. They correspond closely to historical American heavy-hex dimensions for nominal 7/8-inch and 1-inch fasteners. This indicates that the stamped numbers likely identify the nominal fastener diameter rather than the across-flats wrench opening.

The measurements therefore provide useful evidence about the wrench’s sizing convention, but they do not by themselves establish its maker or exact industrial application.

Additional markings appear to read G.B. 41 or G.B. 4 1. I have not found sufficient documentation to identify that marking confidently, so the manufacturer remains unknown.

Condition is good for a vintage industrial tool. The wrench shows scratches, small dings, jaw-edge wear, scattered finish loss, and other evidence of previous shop use. It has been cleaned and lightly stabilized while preserving its aged working patina. It has not been polished or refinished.

Its substantial size and forged construction also make it well suited for garage, shop, office, bar, or industrial-style display.

A printed vintage tool care sheet is included with the order.

Shipping note: This is a heavy solid-steel tool and will be packed securely.

Bullet Highlights

• Large vintage double open-end wrench
• Approximately 16 inches overall
• Heavy forged steel construction
• Marked 7/8 and 1
• Actual openings approximately 1-7/16” and 1-5/8”
• Sizing consistent with nominal fastener diameter rather than jaw opening
• Dimensions correspond closely to American heavy-hex fastener sizing
• Additional marking appears to read G.B. 41 or G.B. 4 1
• Maker and exact application remain unidentified
• Worn black industrial finish
• Cleaned and stabilized, not refinished
• Honest age and working wear
• Suitable for tool collection or industrial display
• Printed care sheet included