Antique Gwr Railway Hand Lantern Inspector's Oil Lamp No. 3343 Tri-colour Lens C1900

A beautifully preserved Original GRW Railway Inspectors Oil lamp C1900.

This exceptional late Victorian to Edwardian railway hand lantern, circa 1900, is a classic example of standard-issue running gear employed by the Great Western Railway (GWR). Constructed predominantly from robust sheet iron with a traditional japanned black finish, the lantern features an elegant spun brass collar, a heavy-gauge carrying handle, and a rear mounting bracket alongside a fixed wire handle for versatile use on the ground or on the move. The body retains its original, deeply stamped identification number, 3343, which marks its specific issue and operational record on the network.

Designed primarily for hand-signalling and inspection work, the interior mechanism houses its original oil vessel and brass burner assembly. The true appeal of this piece lies in its fully functioning tri-colour rotating internal sleeve. By using the top toggle mechanism, the operator could seamlessly switch the beam from clear glass to deep ruby red, or to a striking cobalt blue. These multi-aspect lamps were critical safety tools, allowing inspectors, guards, and stationmasters to communicate clearly across dark shunting yards and platforms during the height of the steam era.

Condition Report The lantern is offered in excellent antique condition, retaining its original mechanical components and displaying a wonderful honest patina to the japanned metalwork and brass trim. The internal rotating colour mechanism remains smooth and entirely operational. The internal blue glass filter has suffered a clean break at some stage in its history, which has been expertly stabilized and consolidated using a professional resin repair. This repair ensures the glass is perfectly secure while preserving the historical integrity of the piece. The remaining glass lenses, including the large convex bullseye front lens and the ruby red filter, are entirely intact.

Dimensions

Height (including top handle): 310mm

Depth (including rear handle): 190mm

Width: 140mm

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