my newest (oldest) Boye Needle Case!
 

I'm been watching for an "old number system" Boye case, and I finally added one to my collection.

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psemokg6tm.jpg

Notice it has no markings on the sides. The box has this plaque on one side

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psmlla5uka.jpg

And a drawer to hold more needle cases. Some have a different drawer configuration.

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psjwh0rmzi.jpg

for fun - here are some pictures from all four -

This is the center - this is the oldest and has no half size needles. It also has a hole in the arrow. I've read this is to hold a spool pin, for thread to show how the needle threader worked.

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psosj85dac.jpg

This one has the addition of 20 1/2 needle - for the W&G chain-stitch machine

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...pskcwnibhq.jpg

This one also has the 20 1/2 (though it does not show in this picture)

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psdvet9zqz.jpg

and it has stickers placed on it to "update" for the 2 1/2 size needle added - note the SewHandy name

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psvwtiqiaa.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...ps3rvezbis.jpg

This one has both 1/2 sizes

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...pseqmrboo8.jpg

And SewHandy is now on the rim - Along with a lot of other "newer" machines of the time

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psiodtju49.jpg

And the needle chart and shutter (sliding cover plate)

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...ps4mzcheyv.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psbq6vg4ki.jpg

2nd

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psaueassez.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psy3dqiedl.jpg

3rd

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psdokeeovs.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psg58zl07a.jpg

4th
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psltvqojdh.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c3...psoz9vgkmp.jpg

You collect some of the neatest things I have ever seen. How you find these items I do not know but it is great that you get them and can preserve them in your "museum".

Hi Cathy,

A wonderful collection of Boye cabinets. The old style numbering cases don't seem to be very common. I think this Boye fellow was a marketing genius even with the wacky dual numbering system. Sort of adds to the interest.

I bought a Boye cabinet similar to yours with the wood base but with the newer system numbering. It has both 2-1/2 and 20-1/2 spots on the tin. Hopefully it arrives safely from your neck of the woods, South Dakota.

Jon

That is very interesting - Thank you for sharing.

I really like the looks of those displays. Maybe one day I'll have one hanging on my wall! (I can dream......)

So neat, what a great collection. I have never seen a live one that I can remember. What a load of information on them too. Would be so nice to have.

Cathy did yours come with needles shuttles and bobbins in them? I am looking for a couple numbers to fill one of mine out. The arrow with the hole is interesting.

Helen, most of mine came with supplies. I have one case full, and want to keep it that way. I wanted to have plenty for use also, since I have machines that use all but one off the needles/shuttles I have. Send me a PM on what you are looking for. the main problem is that what is missing is usually missing for all the cases - as it was the more common machines and in demand. It's rare you'll find a case with none of the odd ball shuttles there!