If the workmanship in a tool chest is any indication of the maker’s talent, then the craftsmanship of master carpenter and stonemason H.O. Studley must have been awe-inspiring. In an oak clamshell box adorned with rosewood, ebony, pearl and ivory, Studley kept both tools he made and a collection of the finest hand tools made prior to 1900, including a complete set of woodworking tools as well as machinist and stonemasonry tools. To pack the 300-plus tools into a case only 19 % in. wide, 39 in. long and 9 1/z in. deep, Studley devised a jigsaw-puzzle arrangement of flip-up trays, fold-out layers and hidden compartments. Maine native Pete Hardwick now owns the chest, which has been in his family since it was bequeathed to his grandfather by Studley. Hardwick acquired the chest from his brother by trading a 1934 Ford sedan for it. A good trade ? It would seem so: Just one tool – the Stanley #1 plane housed in the ebony archway in the upper-left part of the chest-was appraised at $700. Hardwick, a nonwoodworker, plans to sell the chest.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Marking knife: Hock Double-Bevel Violin Knife, 3/4 in.

This heavy, double-beveled knife stays on track in all directions, and works just fine without adding a handle.

Buy at Lee Valley

Tite-Mark Marking Gauge

These gauges can be easily and precisely adjusted with one hand, which allows you to set the tool while holding a ruler or workpiece in the other. The quality is exceptional, and all have sharp cutters that offer great visibility.

Buy at Lie-Nielsen Toolworks

Veritas Precision Square

This precision square is incredibly versatile, from checking squareness to dialing in machine setups.

Buy at Lee Valley