1940s Ilford Selo Photographic Light Repurposed As A Desk Lamp

This is an absolutely gorgeous 1940s Ilford Selo Photographic Light Repurposed As A Desk Lamp.

Originally sold as a photographic lighting lamp, it has been sympathetically repurposed as a desk lamp. Made by the black and white photographic manufacturer of Ilford Limited, Ilford, London, UK, based on a design going back to the 1930s: this lamp dates to the 1940s.

One of a kind, and perfect for a desk or for use as accent lighting. It has been rewired with orange wire, (with two switches), electrically tested, and is working beautifully. The modern, antique style, 60 Watt light bulb with squirrel cage filament, gives this lightweight lamp a very retro feel, and it blends well with the aluminium lampshade and black metal tripod stand.

In good condition, the metal does have some scuffs and surface scratches commensurate with age and use.

Width: 22.5cm
Height (from Base to top of bayonet bulb holder): 26.5cm
Depth: 23.5cm

The design of this lamp was pretty innovative. Based on a tripod type stand, which actually folds flat. There is a hook at the back which allowed the photographer to hang it from the wall or ceiling. Being lightweight, you can easily move it from room to room.

Originally the lamp was sold in in two forms:
1.0 with a foldable reflector (light shade) and was known as the “Pack Flat Lighting Set”
2.0 With a solid anodised aluminium reflector sold as the “Junior Flood.”

The earlier versions of the lamp were branded “Selo” and had a smooth black stand (like this one). Later versions were in a brown crackle finish.

Repurposing work undertaken:

• Rewired with orange flex: 0.75cm, 3 core, PVC sheathed, cotton braided.
• Has both a switched brass bayonet light fitting as well as an inline black plastic switch
• New CE marked black plug top fitted along with a 3A fuse.
• New low energy, CE marked, Edison Pip Top style Filament 60 Watt bulb. However this can be changed for any BC/B22 bayonet lamp

Portable Appliance Testing undertaken (PAT): The lamp has been electrically tested using a flagship Seaward Europa Plus PAT tester, and passed the UK Portable Appliance Inspection.

A great looking vintage industrial light for your office, workplace or for bench craft work. Wonderful iconic design; really special! It is just waiting for you to add your own plug adapter (if outside the UK). A wonderful looking vintage lamp to complement any home décor! A real statement piece!

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