There’s something nostalgic about zinc. As a young boy, I remember wandering into proper DIY shops on the high street—long before the era of big-box stores—and marveling at the array of zinc washing cans, buckets, and other practical items. Zinc, with its lightweight nature and rust-proof qualities, was the perfect material for everyday tools, especially in the garden.
Last Saturday, while strolling through Ford Market, I stumbled upon not one but two incredible zinc finds. Like buses, they both turned up at once, and while I paid a fair bit for them, I’m convinced they were worth every penny.
The Garden Cloche
First up: an amazing garden cloche. Let’s be honest, you’re not going to find garden accessories like this being made today, not ones that’ll still be around in 50 or 100 years. Everything now feels so flimsy, a byproduct of our throwaway society. But this cloche? It’s the real deal—simple, practical, and built to last.
Designed to sit on a brick or wooden base, it’s ideal for a garden setting. I can already picture it nestled amongst the greenery, protecting pots or nurturing young plants. The design is brilliantly thought out, with a spinning support to hold the four glazed doors open for ventilation. It’s a testament to an era when even the simplest tools were made with care and purpose.
The Huge Zinc Heavens Knows What It Is!
The second find was a zinc dustbin with fittings!, a piece not so easy to identify at first glance. After some research, I discovered it was originally used for either dairy purposes or general fermentation. Of course, in today’s world, the buyer likely won’t use it for either. Instead, it will be repurposed—perhaps as a striking planter or simply filled with soil and used to grow something beautiful.
What makes this vestibule truly special are its details: the sturdy handles and a gorgeous brass tap that give it a unique, statement worthy quality. It’s the kind of piece that adds character to any space, whether indoors or out.
The Timelessness of Zinc
What’s fascinating is how these once commonplace items, things that cost next to nothing back in their day, are now highly sought after treasures. Walk into a trendy shop, a market, or an antique fair, and you’ll see them commanding impressive prices. It’s a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. These were items made properly, built to last, and designed with practicality in mind.
Compare that to today, where mass production often sacrifices quality for cost. Sure, there are still beautiful things being made, but they’re now reserved for the higher end of the market. Once upon a time, beauty and utility were accessible to everyone.
A Worthwhile Investment
Finding both of these pieces on the same day was a stroke of luck, and with spring and summer on the horizon, they’ll undoubtedly be great sellers. The cloche is perfect for gardeners looking to add a touch of vintage charm to their outdoor space, while the zinc jar will appeal to anyone wanting something unique and timeless.
It’s funny how the simplest tools and accessories from the farm or garden can end up being cherished antiques. And it’s even funnier how we come full circle, valuing what was once considered ordinary because it was made to stand the test of time.
So here’s to zinc and the enduring appeal of things made properly. Long may they last!
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