Torque: The Locking Top Corkscrews

The Challenge.

Early 20th century.
France.

A locking top from Germany, made by Graef & Schmidt, makers of the Lady's Legs corkscrew. Notice the small disc that separates the shank from the worm, a nod to the efficacy of the English "Henshall Button".

Steel.
Germany.

An early twentieth century model, in brass.

Edwin Jay.
Italy

The Burgundy.

Williamson.
USA

An unusual curving design distinguishes this locking top corkscrew.

1950's.
Italy.

A contemporary locking top. Notice the flanges along the inside of the frame. These flanges cut into the side of the cork as it lifts out of the bottle, holding it in place. With this simple enhancement, the task of removing the cork from the screw becomes much easier. You don't have to hold the cork - just turn the crosspiece counter-clockwise and the cork comes out. Almost a perfect corkscrew.

Monopol.
Germany.

[Back]