How heavy are the camphor wood ones normally?

Camphor is a dense timber. When you add the brass strapwork and heavy iron locks, these boxes become difficult for one person to lift easily. Two people are usually required to move a good sized one. The thick solid planks add considerable mass compared to modern veneered alternatives.

I have been looking at a few different metal bound boxes and was wondering if the leather handles on the sides should be stiff or flexible?

Original leather carrying loops dry out and harden over the decades. They often snap if you try to use them to carry the full weight today. Most dealers advise leaving stiff handles alone. If they flex easily, someone has either fed the leather heavily with oils or replaced them recently.

What does a flush brass handle look like?

It sits entirely flat against the side of the carcase. The maker cuts a shallow recess into the timber and sinks a rectangular brass plate into it. The handle itself is a hinged loop that drops down into the plate. You have to push your fingers into the recess to pull the loop outward.

My grandfather kept his old military uniforms in a teak trunk for fifty years, will that wood need oiling to stop it cracking?

Teak is naturally oily and resists drying out better than most cabinet timbers. A light wax polish once a year helps maintain the surface. You don't need to soak it in wet oils.

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Antique Travelling Chests in South East

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Built to withstand the rigours of sea voyages and horse-drawn transport, these robust, metal-bound boxes stored clothing and valuables for military officers and wealthy travellers.