A few weeks ago I found an antique multitool I've been looking to get a good deal on.
I found it when I was scrolling German eBay.de, someone posted it for auction starting at
€20,- I ended up the only bidder, so I got the best deal ever for a Herkules combination tool.
The condition was rusty and no-box, but I figured I could get it to near-mint condition because it looked unused. All the edges were sharp, no scratches or deformations.
The only other reference I had was this posting on a US store:
https://www.jimbodetools.com/products/copy-of-rare-herkules-patent-axe-and-combination-tool-85862-as-of-may-5 and
https://www.jimbodetools.com/products/rare-herkules-patent-axe-and-combination-tool-93501They're pricey, but I've seen them go for similar on eBay and invaluable in the past.
It says it's patented, but I've found nothing on either German or European patent offices.
Could be a post-war German export product because it has imperial system taps/ruler on the tool.
I took the gamble of soaking it in white vinegar for a day or so, and cleaning it further with mineral oil and a cloth.
It cleaned up pretty well, but I'll have to wire brush it to polish it further (maybe on a later date).
Below the pictures before/after of the project. I'm open to suggestions how to take the restoration a step further. Thanks.
It's designed to take it apart for individual wrench use, kinda like the Tell Sportman's Aid or the Spyderench.