So You Think You've Met the Glass of Your Dreams: A Guide to Dating Owens-Illinois Glass
Ah, Owens-Illinois glass. The Audrey Hepburn of the antique world, the George Clooney of your grandma's cupboard. But how do you know if that dusty bottle on the shelf is a true vintage treasure, or just last year's salsa jar hoping for a second chance at romance? Fear not, fellow archaeologist of the kitchen counter, for I am here to guide you through the fascinating world of Owens-Illinois dating!
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| How To Date Owens Illinois Glass |
Cracking the Code: The Ins and Outs of Owens-Illinois Markings
First things first, you gotta get to know your Owens-Illinois a little better. Unlike a Tinder bio, these markings are a bit more cryptic. Look for the Owens-Illinois insignia on the base of the glass. It might be a fancy diamond with an "O-I" inside, or a simple square with a circle. This is where things get interesting, because Owens-Illinois has a history of changing their dating system more often than some people change their socks.
Pre-1930s: Back in the good ol' days, things were simpler. A single-digit number next to the logo might mean you're holding a piece of history! But here's the twist: a number without a period could be from the 1920s or 30s. You'll need some good research skills (or maybe a time machine) to narrow it down.
The 1930s and Beyond: Thankfully, things became a bit more user-friendly later on. A single-digit number followed by a period (like a 4.) means you're looking at 1940s glassware. Double-digit numbers became the norm after that, with the year clearly marked.
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
Bonus Round: Factory Fun! Sometimes, you might see another number next to the date code. This is the factory code, telling you where your bottle was born! While not essential for dating purposes, it can add a whole new layer of intrigue to your investigation.
Beyond the Base: Additional Clues to Consider
While the markings on the bottom are your best bet, there are other things to keep in mind:
- The Style: Certain styles of bottles were popular in specific eras. Do some research on bottle shapes and see if yours matches a particular time period.
- The "Duraglas" Debacle: Owens-Illinois started using the term "Duraglas" on their bottles in the 1940s. So, if you see that inscription, you know you're not looking at anything pre-war.
Remember: Dating Owens-Illinois glass isn't an exact science. Sometimes, a little detective work and informed guesswork are required. But hey, that's all part of the fun, right? You might just unearth a hidden gem (or at least a really cool pickle jar) in the process!
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
FAQ: Owens-Illinois Dating for Dummies
How to tell if my Owens-Illinois glass is pre-1930s?
Look for a single-digit number on the base without a period. But be warned, you might need some extra research to pinpoint the exact decade.
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How can the factory code help me date my glass?
Tip: Scroll slowly when the content gets detailed.
The factory code won't tell you the year, but it can be a fun clue to learn where your bottle was made!
What if my Owens-Illinois glass doesn't have any markings?
Unfortunately, dating becomes much trickier. However, the style of the bottle might offer some hints about its age.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Is "Duraglas" a dead giveaway for post-1940s glass?
Pretty much! If you see "Duraglas" on the base, you know your glass is a child of the 40s or later.
Is dating Owens-Illinois glass as complicated as my love life?
Thankfully, no! With a little practice, you'll be a pro at deciphering those markings and unearthing the hidden history of your Owens-Illinois glass collection.
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