Vintage Barcalo Buffalo Open End Wrench Set (5 Pieces)
Barcalo-Buffalo (Barcalo Manufacturing Co.) · Tools & Hardware > Vintage Hand Tools
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (WWII-era/Post-War)
Material
Forged Carbon Steel with raised panel design; features 'Forged in USA' markings.
Condition
Good to Very Good (Vintage). The wrenches show significant surface patina and light oxidation consistent with age, but the jaws appear crisp and are not rounded off.
Demand Level
Niche to Moderate. Specific demand from vintage Jeep collectors and American tool enthusiasts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (as a partial set)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $60.00 (modern high-quality equivalent USA-made set)
Comparable Sales
Individual wrenches sell for $8-$12 each; small partial sets of 5-6 wrenches typically close between $30 and $50 depending on the specific sizes included and cleanliness.
Description
Authentic vintage Barcalo-Buffalo open-end wrench set. Includes five graduated sizes: 7/8 x 25/32, 3/4 x 5/8, 11/16 x 19/32, 7/16 x 3/8, and 13/32 x 5/16. These feature the iconic raised panel handle design and are marked 'BARCALO BUFFALO' and 'MADE IN USA'. Perfect for tool collectors or enthusiasts of vintage American industrial equipment.
Key Features
Highly collectible brand (Barcalo provided tools for WWII Willys Jeep kits); Made in USA; raised panel design; desirable for 'period correct' vintage car tool rolls.
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive raised panel forge mark; 'Barcalo Buffalo' stamped in the center; fractional sizing stamps on either end. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Surface rust and dark patina throughout (can be cleaned with evaporust); minor pitting; no original pouch or missing intermediate sizes for a full master set.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the primary market for vintage tools; Etsy for industrial decor buyers; specialized tool forums like GarageJournal or MJFC.
Selling Tips
Do not aggressively grind or sand these; use a chemical bath like Evapo-rust to preserve the original finish. Use 'WWII Jeep Tool' in the keywords if sizes match specific vehicle kit requirements. Take clear photos of the jaw ends to show they aren't damaged.