The 1937 Becken Book: Annual Wholesale Catalog -- Diamonds, Watches, Jewelry, Clocks, Novelties, Material, Tools, Silverware, Optical Goods

Chicago: A.C. Becken Co, 1936. Hardcover. 4to. Grey cloth with blue and burgundy lettering and blue, gilt and burgundy decorations. 780pp. Extensive illustrations (some color and some partly color). Very good overall. Binding typically a bit edgeworn and age toned, but sound; text block mostly near fine; front flyleaf seemingly an expert period replacement; small inked note on front pastedown (no doubt from jeweler owner, who reminds himself "Clock movements Page 634 to 637"); faint floral mustiness. Tight, nice first edition of the "Fiftieth Anniversary Number 1887 1937" (according to front board gilt medallion) of this notable Chicago wholesaler best known for its watches and jewelry, as the title page statement ("This Catalog Is Sent to Recognized Retail Jewelers Only") attests. Becken was successor to two other notable Chicago businesses, which the front board duly notes: "Continuing Otto Young & Co. and C.H. Knights Thearle Co." The color images are particularly bright and charming. Thumb-indent at center point (labeled "Index") and orange stock marks location of this feature. A fascinating, in-depth look at thousands of examples of the household items listed in their subtitle -- as well as a scarce survivor, as these in-house reference works had a finite shelf life, got used heavily and were generally then discarded. Decent example of this scarce title, especially in tight, handleable condition.