Vintage 1944 Suitcase Papworth Industries

Your story, your style.

Vintage 1944 Suitcase by Papworth Industries
A truly special original 1944 vintage suitcase made by Papworth Industries, a name deeply rooted in British social history. Compact yet full of character, this piece carries the quiet charm of wartime Britain and makes a wonderful decorative object, prop, or storage piece.

A Little History
Papworth Industries was founded to provide meaningful employment for people recovering from tuberculosis, and during the 1940s they produced a wide range of practical goods, including luggage for everyday and wartime use. This suitcase would have travelled during a time of rationing, resilience, and hope — possibly accompanying its owner on railway journeys, relocations, or treasured visits to loved ones.
The case features its original sliding click lock (no key) and opens smoothly. Its aged patina, surface marks, and wear tell the story of a life well lived — all part of its authentic vintage appeal.

Details:
Maker: Papworth Industries
Year: 1944
Lock: Sliding click lock (no key)
External dimensions: 35 × 25 × 12 cm
Internal dimensions: 21 × 21 × 11 cm

Condition:
Genuine vintage piece
No key present
Age-related wear, marks, and patina consistent with its history
Structurally sound and full of character

📏 Dimensions :
35 x 25 x 12 cm Outside
21 x 21 x 11 cm inside area.

Please note that all of our items are vintage and preloved, which means they may show visible signs of age, wear, and imperfections. These characteristics — such as patina, scratches, fading, or minor chips — are not flaws, but part of the item’s unique story and charm.

We do our best to describe and photograph each piece accurately, so please review all images and details carefully before purchasing. By buying vintage, you are acknowledging and embracing the authenticity and character that comes with age.

Condition: All pieces are vintage / pre-loved and show gentle, age-related wear consistent with their character. See pictures , sold as seen. Marks and age mark part of their charm and patina. Decor not included.

LOCAL DELIVERY - Greater Manchester Area : Minimum Order: £5

Local Delivery Fee: £5 for orders within a 20-mile radius of Greater Manchester

Free Delivery:
▸ Orders over £150 qualify for FREE delivery within 20 miles of Greater Manchester
▸ Orders over £250 qualify for FREE delivery within a 40-mile radius

DELIVERY/ POST
Standard Delivery – from £5.95
UK Mainland: Up to 5 working days
UK Offshore, Highlands & Islands: Up to 15 working days

Express Delivery – from £15
UK Mainland only
Orders placed Monday–Friday by 2pm delivered the next working day

Fragile Delivery ( Mirrors , Gallery Wall Sets etc ) - from £15

Furniture & Large Item Delivery - from £60

International Shipping, please reach out for a personalised quote.

Click & Collect – Free
Pick up from our Manchester – Middleton (M24) Collection point
Ready within 24hrs - pick up within 7 working days
Full collection address provided by email after purchase
Please note: This is a collection point only — browsing is not available
Orders not collected within 7 days will be cancelled and refunded, with a £5 admin fee deducted
Click here for full details

🔄 Returns
We offer a 14-day returns window. If the item isn’t right for you, return it in its original condition for a full refund (excluding delivery fees).
You can find full details in our Shipping & Returns or Terms of Service pages.

See full shipping info here