CollectingSnapOn.com

Is anyone in the mood to help me figure out this box?

The top lid has the snap on name stamped in it. Top lid also has the clasp and box appears to be black. Bottom part has no clasp and the socket compartment right side is at 90 not diagonal. I can’t find a picture of this box in the catalogs. Appears to be a mix between 1931 and 1932. Maybe a midyear box?

The black was used with the embossed label in the early 30s. Hard to put an exact date on these, just an era.

Interesting, there are pictures with dates all over, but the pictures/dates do not match the catalog pictures/dates.

Next question, should I repaint it or leave the worn off look?

I see what you mean. The top row looks like the earlier versions with unmarked sockets. Looks like these 3 earlier boxes with no embossing. The other one is the typical later embossed box with the top row narrowing a bit at the right.

Which type of hinges does it have?

Hinges look like the picture on the bottom, square edges.

Ya probably early 32 then, must be a very early embossed box. Maybe they put the new style lid on a leftover bottom. Cool box. I would not paint it, has nice patina. Would love to see the sockets that came in it.

The catalog drawings don't always show the subtle changes in the early years. Boxes as well as tools. Rapid changes in tools, carry-over inventory & economic times had to be a big factor. As well as relying on vendors to supply certain items.
A guide would be the tools that came in the box. Tools & box may have been purchased together.
Early '30s is as close as you'll get. No matter what theory anyone might have going.

It would be near impossible to say for sure

Oldtuleguy wrote:Ya probably early 32 then, must be a very early embossed box. Maybe they put the new style lid on a leftover bottom. Cool box. I would not paint it, has nice patina. Would love to see the sockets that came in it.

That's what I was thinking, 31 bottom, 32 top.