Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A heavy-duty industrial steel storage unit featuring thirty individual drawers with integrated label holders and finger pulls. Originally designed for high-efficiency office or factory organization, it represents the 'Machine Age' aesthetic where utility met indestructible construction.
Story
Post-war America thrived on this level of organization. These cabinets were the backbone of bustling garment districts and engineering firms, keeping thousands of tiny parts in perfect order for decades of daily use.
Maker / Origin
Cole Steel Equipment Co. was a titan of mid-century office furniture, known for producing 'overbuilt' steel pieces that could survive a fire. Based in New York, they became synonymous with the sleek, grey-green industrial look that defined the modern workspace before the age of plastic.
Condition & Value
The cabinet shows honest wear consistent with a working life, including minor surface oxidation and original Dymo-style labels. The presence of all original hardware and the lack of major structural denting preserves its value; the 'as-found' labels actually add character for many buyers. Condition is good for its age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.