So You Think You've Met the Glass of Your Dreams: A Guide to Dating Owens-Illinois
Ah, Owens-Illinois glass. The Audrey Hepburn of the antique world, the Brad Pitt of vintage bottles. You've found yourself smitten with a smooth, curvy piece of glassware, and your heart is set on unraveling its mysterious past. But how do you even begin to date an inanimate object made in the 1930s? Fear not, fellow collector (or, are you just a hopeless romantic?), for this guide will equip you with the knowledge to become a veritable Indiana Jones of the bottom of a bottle.
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| How Do I Date Owens-illinois Glass |
Cracking the Code: The Secret Language of Owens-Illinois
First things first, you need to understand your potential partner's cryptic messages. Unlike a dating app bio, Owens-Illinois communicates through a series of numbers and symbols etched on the base. This might seem intimidating, but with a little practice, you'll be deciphering these codes like a champ. Here's a cheat sheet to get you started:
- The All-Seeing Eye: Look for a circle inside a square – that's the Owens-Illinois logo pre-1930. The number beside it, usually single-digit, is the year your sweetheart was born (well, manufactured). Easy enough, right?
- The Diamond Duo: After 1930, the logo transformed into a fancy diamond with an "O" and an "I" inside. This is where things get interesting. The number to the LEFT of the diamond tells you the factory where your bottle was born, while the number to the RIGHT is the year (again, most likely single-digit before the 1940s).
- The Post-War Period: Things get a bit more complex after the 1940s, with double-digit year codes and additional markings. But fear not, there are plenty of resources online with detailed charts to help you navigate this era.
Remember: Patience is key! Deciphering these codes can take some practice, so grab a magnifying glass, a good bottle of wine (preferably not in an Owens-Illinois bottle you're trying to date!), and get ready to become an expert.
Beyond the Bottom Line: Unveiling Your Owens-Illinois's History
Dating an Owens-Illinois glass isn't just about numbers – it's about uncovering a rich history. Once you've cracked the code, you can use online resources to research the factory where it was made and the types of products it might have held. Imagine the stories your bottle could tell! Perhaps it once held a refreshing Coca-Cola on a hot summer day in 1935, or maybe it was a trusty container of Heinz ketchup during a family dinner in the 1950s.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
The thrill of the hunt is half the fun!
FAQ: Dating Owens-Illinois Glass - The Need-to-Know
1. How to tell if my bottle is Owens-Illinois?
Look for the logo! It's either a circle inside a square (pre-1930) or a diamond with an "O" and an "I" inside (post-1930).
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
2. I can't find any markings on the bottom!
Not all bottles have codes. Some may have a letter or number, but it won't necessarily tell you the date.
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3. Help! My code is a jumbled mess of numbers and symbols!
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
Don't despair! There are resources online with detailed charts to help you decipher even the most complex codes.
4. Is there a specific type of Owens-Illinois glass that's more valuable?
Rarity plays a role, but the value depends on several factors like condition, color, and type of bottle. Research is your best friend here!
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
5. Where can I learn more about Owens-Illinois glass?
The Society for Historical Archaeology and online collector forums are great places to start your deep dive!
So, there you have it! With a little detective work and a dash of imagination, you'll be well on your way to dating your Owens-Illinois glass and uncovering its fascinating history. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the journey!
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