Value of old vises
Old vise value depends on maker, jaw width, weight, swivel base, condition, completeness, bench context, and local demand.
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Start by identifying whether it is a machinist bench vise, woodworking vice, leg vise, small salesman sample, or part of a full workbench.
Auction records are market evidence, not a final appraisal. Condition, authenticity, provenance, completeness, size, rarity, and demand can materially change value.
Quick value checklist
- Photograph the full item, maker marks, patent dates, handles, blades, jaws, screws, labels, boxes, and damage.
- Measure key dimensions and show weight if safe and relevant.
- Note rust, cracks, repairs, missing parts, sharpening, repainting, replacement handles, and whether it functions.
Key value drivers
- Maker, jaw width, weight, original parts, clean screw, swivel base, and working condition drive value.
- Vise-only sales, workbenches with vices, and miniature samples compare separately.
- Cracks, broken jaws, missing handles, frozen screws, and pickup-only limits can reduce value.
What similar items actually sold for
To help ground this guide in real market activity, here are recent example auction comps from Appraisily’s internal database. These matched sales are market context only, not an object estimate or identification, and they do not guarantee a price for your specific bench vise.
Shown USD range: USD 12-USD 150. Median of these 8 USD examples: USD 45.
| Comparable | What sold | Auction house | Date | Lot | Source-reported amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
TABLE TOP BENCH VISESource blocked; provenance matched | Atlee Raber Auctioneer | 2024-09-11 | 1267 | USD 25 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Cast Iron Bench ViseSource blocked; provenance matched | EJ'S Auction & Appraisal | 2025-09-20 | 2031 | USD 60 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Heavy Duty Bench ViseSource blocked; provenance matched | Davis Brothers Auction | 2024-11-03 | 1033 | USD 110 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Wood Workers Bench ViseSource blocked; provenance matched | Wehrly's Auction Service | 2024-05-28 | 314 | USD 12 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
C. PARKER NO. 22 BENCH VISE.Source blocked; provenance matched | Poulin Antiques & Auctions | 2024-12-04 | 3616 | USD 150 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Red Doyle Bench Vise with Rotating BaseSource blocked; provenance matched | R & R Auction INC | 2025-05-18 | 10011 | USD 50 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Larin Swivel Bench ViseSource blocked; provenance matched | EJ'S Auction & Appraisal | 2024-10-05 | 2107 | USD 40 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
6 Inch Cross Slide Bench ViseSource blocked; provenance matched | R & R Auction INC | 2024-04-14 | 2468 | USD 25 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
How these auction records were verified
Each row retains its exact source URL, lot identity, retrieval time, access result, and immutable record hash. Live source access was blocked; the exact record matched Appraisily's immutable pipeline provenance. Inspect the public comparable provenance record.
Disclosure: prices are shown as reported by auction houses and are provided for appraisal context. Learn more in our editorial policy.
Condition and authenticity cautions
Do not force a frozen screw, repaint, or replace handles before documentation. Maker marks and original hardware matter.
Use a professional appraisal when the item may be significant, needs insurance, estate, donation, or sale documentation, or has authenticity questions.
When the free screener is enough
Use the free screener for first-pass identification, condition review, and market direction before cleaning, restoring, selling, donating, or ordering a formal appraisal.
When to get a professional appraisal
Use a professional appraisal for insurance, estate, donation, legal, or higher-value sale decisions. See the professional sample report.
Related guides
Antique tools and machines value guides, Value of old tools, Free tool appraisal app, Free antique tool appraisal, Free farm tool appraisal, Antique tools value.
FAQ
Are old vises valuable?
Some are, especially maker-marked, large, complete, and working examples. Many ordinary vises are modest.
What vise details matter?
Maker, jaw width, weight, swivel base, screw condition, handle, jaws, and cracks.
Should I restore a vise?
Document first. Repainting or replacing parts can affect collector value.
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