Overview
This is a classic mid-century men's accessory set featuring a gold-tone tie clip with elegant engine-turned engraving and a matching monogrammed tie tac with a safety chain and bar. The set represents the height of post-war American men's haberdashery, where attention to small details defined a gentleman's personal style.
Story
During the mid-20th century, Swank was the undisputed king of American men's jewelry, turning everyday functional fasteners into miniature works of wearable art. This set, featuring a stylized 'C' monogram on the tie tac, was designed for the sharp-dressed 'Mad Men' era businessman who wouldn't dream of leaving the house without his tie perfectly secured.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1897 as the Attleboro Manufacturing Company, the firm initially made women's jewelry before pivoting to men's accessories during WWI. Rebranded as Swank in 1936, the company became a household name by mass-producing high-quality, stylish, and affordable cufflinks, tie clips, and collar pins that defined American men's fashion for decades.
Condition & Value
The pieces show light surface wear and minor oxidation on the reverse of the tie tac, which is typical for vintage gold-plated base metal. The spring mechanism on the tie clip and the clutch on the tie tac appear fully functional. Excellent vintage condition overall.