Info pls: genuine vintage Superior Model Form

[Caroline Gillgrass]

Hello folks! I'm hoping someone might be able to enlighten me on this beautiful antique dress form my father was gifted. The stand casting says Superior Model Form Co and has a NY address. I've done some research and see lots of SMF mannequins but not one with this type of fabric or in this condition. I'm very intrigued. Would anyone know how old it is? (It should be pre-195x, which is when SMF changed its name to Superior Model Forms - plural...) Any idea on value or best way to sell it would be appreciated - it's lovely but we don't need it. We're located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada - 8 hrs drive from NYC!

 

[The Vintage Merchant]

cool mannequin, Caroline! @Jonathan ...reminds me of the one on your logo.

 

[pastperfect2]

We can't do price valuations here. as to condition - does it still have the pedal to raise and lower the form? That's kind of important, value wise. I can tell you these cost a fortune to ship as they are so heavy and don't break down size wise. You may well be better off selling it locally - think theaters, costume shops, maybe vintage dealers.

If it's labeled a sz 16, you could measure the bust and see how that compares to SZ 16 bust measurements in older patterns. For example, I have an early 1950s Vogue pattern where a SZ 16 is a 34" bust. And a 1960s pattern where a Sz 16 is a 36" bust.

From the not super defined waist, I'd agree with the pre 1950s. The manufacture on these hasn't changed a lot over the years.

 

[Caroline Gillgrass]

We can't do price valuations here. as to condition - does it still have the pedal to raise and lower the form? That's kind of important, value wise. I can tell you these cost a fortune to ship as they are so heavy and don't break down size wise. You may well be better off selling it locally - think theaters, costume shops, maybe vintage dealers.

If it's labeled a sz 16, you could measure the bust and see how that compares to SZ 16 bust measurements in older patterns. For example, I have an early 1950s Vogue pattern where a SZ 16 is a 34" bust. And a 1960s pattern where a Sz 16 is a 36" bust.

From the not super defined waist, I'd agree with the pre 1950s. The manufacture on these hasn't changed a lot over the years.

Thanks for those tips! I'll definitely do that.

 

[anothertimevintageapparel]

I wouldnt put it any earlier than 1940 early 1950s. Because of the shape.
My older ones have a perfect defined waist for antique clothing.
Also the finial on top is later. My older ones have a wheel like top.

Like this

 

[Jonathan]

two breasts but slim hips -- looks 1930s to me - maybe early 40s.

 

[Caroline Gillgrass]

We can't do price valuations here. as to condition - does it still have the pedal to raise and lower the form? That's kind of important, value wise. I can tell you these cost a fortune to ship as they are so heavy and don't break down size wise. You may well be better off selling it locally - think theaters, costume shops, maybe vintage dealers.

If it's labeled a sz 16, you could measure the bust and see how that compares to SZ 16 bust measurements in older patterns. For example, I have an early 1950s Vogue pattern where a SZ 16 is a 34" bust. And a 1960s pattern where a Sz 16 is a 36" bust.

From the not super defined waist, I'd agree with the pre 1950s. The manufacture on these hasn't changed a lot over the years.

I measured and it seems to be a 39" bust. I googled and haven't yet found older sizing with that bust size except for 70's which seems unlikely. Any ideas? I also took a couple additional photos.

 

[pastperfect2]

I just think that means the 16 written on the base is not the size. I agree with Jonathan - 1930s - early 1940s by shape.