Ashtray | silver

This silver Asprey ashtray perfectly captures mid-20^th century decadence. The fundamental idea of a silver ashtray is already somewhat self-indulgent, even for the period. Seeking one out from arguably one of the finest purveyors of luxury goods, pushes the concept to the extreme. Not that we would have it any other way.

A purveyor of luxury goods

Founded in 1781, Asprey & Co. has supplied a clientele of aristocrats, foreign heads of states and wealthy industrialists. In its glory days, from its New Bond Street address, the retailer was a destination for individuals of refinement and discernment, seeking articles of exclusive design and high quality. For horological aficionados, Asprey will no doubt be familiar as a notable retailer of Patek Philippe, including a recently surfaced Asprey-signed ref. 2499, and for being the official supplier of Rolex watches to the Sultan of Oman.

Refined and elegant in design, this ashtray was made for Asprey in 1966. For some historical context, in the mid ‘60s, London was the centre of the world. Travellers and trend-setters came here to discover something new, from the music to the fashion. It was, in one word, swinging London. For example, the very same year this ashtray was made, Jean-Jacques Cartier decided to start producing his own line of wristwatches from Cartier in London, birthing some of the most original designs from the period. 

A Classic Design

The silver case features an engine-turned pattern on the outer section, with a polished finish in the center. In each corner, a curved portion is designed for one to lean a cigarette or cigar on, making the design both visually appealing and functional. On the back of the tray, the manufactures hallmarks and "Asprey London" are neatly displayed. The hallmark of the lion passant also indicates that the silver used is .925 purity. 

Whether used for its original function or repurposed for alternate use, we hope that the refined decadence of this silver Asprey ashtray will endure.