Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a premium, heavy-gauge stainless steel fish poacher complete with its internal perforated lift-out rack and a polished lid featuring a cast fish-shaped handle. Designed for poaching whole fish, long cuts, or vegetables, it represents All-Clad's signature high-end American cookware engineering.
Story
Founded in 1971 by metallurgist John Ulam, All-Clad revolutionized professional kitchens by bonding micro-layers of metals together. This 18-inch poacher was crafted specifically for poaching whole trout or salmon evenly without tearing delicate skin.
Maker / Origin
John Ulam, a pioneer in bonded metals who held over 50 patents, founded All-Clad Metalcrafters in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, after formulating cladding processes for coinage. He began crafting professional cookware using bonded aluminum and stainless steel, quickly earning the endorsement of master chefs like Julia Child and James Beard.
Condition & Value
Appears to be in excellent, lightly used to unused condition with minor surface scuffs from storage. The original box, protective plastic, and interior rack are all present, which significantly boosts collectible value. Discontinued All-Clad specialty cookware retains high resale value due to superior construction and brand loyalty.
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.