Hand-Chased Scabbard 2nd Model Naval Dagger by WKC

German WWII > Edged Weapons > Navy Daggers > 2nd Model Navy Daggers

2nd Model Naval Dagger with Orange Grip and Hand-chased Scabbard – WKC This fantastic 2nd Model Naval Dagger would easily be a highlight of any Naval collection; its singular beauty is incomparable. It is the product of the finest workmanship performed during the 3rd Reich. Someone paid a lot of extra Reichsmarks for this dagger during the time, and honestly it was well worth the cost. An near identical dagger appears in my Naval Book in color on Page 376, left. In fact, it may be the identical piece, except that the dirk shown in the photo does not have a portepee. Perhaps this accoutrement was added on later as the two pieces appear to be the same.

The choice pommel is one of the beautifully-detailed 1938 change-over types, indicating that this dagger was most likely produced with a round ball pommel originally. The pommel is the same as I show in my Naval book on Page 229. The depth of the half-open wings gives more of a vaulted appearance to the wreath of the swastika on these change-over pommels. The detail throughout the bird's head and breast feathering is still crisp.

The crossguard is the standard WKC type being the same as is shown on Page 270. It features excellent fouled anchors in the two center blocks and has fine acanthus leaves decorating the cross guard arms. The quillons end in buttons with nipples in the center.

The grip is a stunning orange color with the same mandarin tones on both sides. Beneath the portepee tie areas at the upper and lower portion of the grip, it is possible to see that this grip was a yellow color when the dagger was first produced. A classic example of what time has done for our viewing pleasure, as sunlight has really worked its color magic on this grip. The grip is totally perfect, being tightly wrapped with twisted brass wire, The wire has trapped minuscule amounts of earth's time and dust within the lower ribs; I love to see this as it is a testament to the dagger's age, despite its sterling condition.

As indicated above, the dirk is equipped with a most impressive silver bullion Naval portepee. The portepee has toned a golden color and is tied perfectly in the Naval double reef knot, being set in shape from years in this position. There is no fray or any problems with the bullion cord. The slide and stem have the "V" designs in the weave. The ball ball displays a white flat surface, which appears to be original.

The scabbard, though, simply takes your breath away with its beauty and intricacy; this is some the best work you will ever see. The scabbard is completely straight and, at first glance, appears to be a peened-style pattern. Upon closer inspection, however, this "peening" is revealed to actually be a pattern of intricate circles which have had their centers filled in with tiny punched dots. It must have taken the craftsman many hours of delicate work to achieve this look; the result is tremendous and has to be seen with a loupe to really be appreciated.

On either side of the two carrying bands, bordered panels have been chased and oak leaves and sprigs are raised out, exhibiting incredible detail. The lower chape area has more leaves by extending the panel. The button end is hand-engraved with acorns running around the circumference. Hard to beat this work. The carrying bands are broken into four separate areas with borders, each displaying oak leaves and acorns. The eyelets also display a similar sequence of engravings. Even the rings have been hand-engraved, not with standard pebbling, but with oak leaves running around each side - nothing was left to chance on this scabbard - a true work of art. The throat is retained by brass dome head side screws.

The blade of this dagger is fine, full mint example, with needle-like tip and the classic Fouled Anchor etching. The nickel-plated surfaces are bright and it full mint condition, while the 100% frosted backgrounds show-off the intricacies of the etch design. The obverse ricasso is deeply stamped with the Knight's Head trademark with the firm's monogram below, "WKC". The original reddish felt blade buffer is in place, showing only mild traces of age. Well, there it is... If you have been looking for one of the classiest Naval dirks ever produced, this one is worth your consideration. It is a remarkable piece that would require hours of study to appreciate all of the work evident throughout. An outstanding, investment-quality Naval example here.