Dating Your Brunswick Pool Table

Brunswick pool tables are some of the most popular on the market, and many people have them in their homes. The company has been making pool tables for over 170 years and is one of the leading manufacturers in the industry.

If you're looking to identify an old Brunswick pool table, there are several key identifiers to look out for. Firstly, you can look for the manufacturer's mark, usually located on the table's frame or rails. The name may be engraved on a metal plate or written on the table's side. The logo has changed over time, so it's worth researching different logo variations.

Another way to identify the table is by checking the serial number, which can be found on the underside of the table, typically near one of the legs. If the serial number starts with a B, it's likely an old Brunswick model.

You can also identify a Brunswick table by its design, construction materials, and ornamental details. Vintage catalogues and references can help you compare the table's design elements with known models. Older Brunswick tables were often made with high-quality woods like mahogany or oak, and they often feature intricate carvings, inlays, or decorative elements.

Additionally, you can examine the area beneath the cushions, as Brunswick tables are made with a machine-recessed area where the felt can be stapled down. The table should also have strong joints created by gluing two pieces of wood with alternating grains, and galvanized steel leg plates.

Identifying an old Brunswick pool table can help determine its authenticity, value, and historical significance. These tables are renowned for their top-notch quality and intricate craftsmanship, and they hold a special place in the world of cue sports.

The logo or nameplate

Location of the Logo or Nameplate

The Brunswick logo or nameplate is usually located somewhere on the table's frame, rails, or even the felt. It may be printed directly on the wood or affixed to a metal plate. Sometimes, it can also be found on one of the legs.

Variations of the Logo

The Brunswick logo has evolved over time, so it's beneficial to research different logo variations. For instance, the letter "B" in the monogram may have a distinctive serif font, with the top left serif extending upwards and over the letter.

Reproduction Nameplates

If your table's nameplate is missing or damaged, you can find reproduction nameplates available for purchase. These replicas vary in design and material, such as solid brass, white plating, or mother-of-pearl, and can help restore the authentic look of your table.

Authenticity

When assessing the logo or nameplate, it's important to be aware of potential counterfeits. Brunswick pool tables are highly sought-after, and less scrupulous individuals may attempt to pass off a non-Brunswick table as an authentic one by adding a fake logo or nameplate. Consulting experts or comparing your table to known Brunswick models can help verify its authenticity.

Serial Number

In addition to the logo or nameplate, Brunswick tables often feature a serial number, which can provide valuable information about the table's production year and model. This serial number is typically stamped on the frame or a metal plate and may start with the letter "B" for older tables.

Serial number

The serial number of a Brunswick pool table can be found on the underside of the table, usually near one of the legs. If you find a serial number that starts with "B," this is a good indication that you have an old Brunswick pool table. The serial number can provide valuable information about the table's production year and model.

Brunswick serial numbers are typically 5 or 6 digits long. The numbers were used to keep the pieces of specific individual tables together during the manufacturing process. However, they do not decode into dates or the number of tables built.

It is important to note that Brunswick has changed its name several times over the years, so the logo or name on the table may vary. Some of the company's names that you may find on an authentic table include:

• J.M. Brunswick Manufacturing Company
• J.M. Brunswick & Brother
• J.M. Brunswick & Brothers
• J.M. Brunswick-Balge Company
• Brunswick-Balke-Collender Company

Table design

Brunswick pool tables are known for their unique designs and craftsmanship, with high-quality hardwood and slate construction. The tables are reinforced with rubber cushions and can be customised with different cloth colours and materials. The company has been manufacturing pool tables for over 170 years, so their designs have gone through various changes and innovations.

One of the key identifiers of a Brunswick pool table is its table design. Over the years, Brunswick has produced tables with different features, so studying vintage catalogues and comparing a table's design elements with known models can help with identification.

Brunswick's table designs have evolved over time, with the company offering a range of styles to suit different tastes. For example, the Amaranth model from 1882 features a plainer and graver style, with minimal ornamental inlay, to meet the demands of those who prefer less ornate furniture. On the other hand, the Jewel model features intricate carvings and is described as "one of the most beautiful billiard tables ever produced".

The construction of Brunswick tables has also varied, with some models having six legs for added stability, while others have the more standard four legs. The legs themselves come in different designs, from the fluted and turned legs of the Improved Union League model to the teardrop-shaped legs of the Moderne.

The materials used in the table's construction can also provide clues to its age and authenticity. Older Brunswick tables were often made with high-quality woods like mahogany or oak, while newer models might incorporate different materials. The type of wood used can also vary, with some tables featuring walnut, rosewood, or ash, depending on the model and the design preferences of the time.

In addition to the type of wood, the finish of the table can also be indicative of its age. For example, the Narragansett model from the early 1900s was available in a rubbed and polished finish, which was easier to keep clean than other finishes. More modern tables, like the Black Wolf and Glenwood models, feature a combination of wood and metal, with aluminium aprons and leg bases.

The ornamental details on Brunswick tables can also provide unique clues to their identity. These details can be specific to certain models or time periods. For example, the Improved Union League model features Egyptian-style friezes, while the Kling 4 Leg model combines classic Greek and ancient Egyptian influences.

Overall, the design of Brunswick pool tables has evolved over the company's long history, with different models featuring unique combinations of leg styles, wood types, finishes, and ornamental details. By studying these design elements and comparing them to known models, it is possible to identify the age and authenticity of a Brunswick pool table.

Construction materials

Older Brunswick pool tables were often crafted from high-quality wood, such as mahogany or oak. These tables were built to last and are known for their exquisite craftsmanship. The wood was carefully selected and seasoned to ensure maximum durability. For example, the Brunswick "Baby Grand" table from 1916 was made from genuine mahogany, while the "Narragansett" model from 1908-1909 featured quarter-sawed golden oak.

In addition to wood, Brunswick has also incorporated other materials into their table designs. Some tables may have aluminium or plywood components, adding to their strength and rigidity. The "Centennial" table, for instance, features a mar-resistant aluminium apron and leg basing.

When identifying the age of a Brunswick pool table, it is important to examine the construction materials closely. Pay attention to the type of wood used, as well as any other materials present. Compare these with known models from vintage catalogues to help narrow down the production period. Additionally, the use of certain materials may be indicative of a particular era or design trend.

The construction materials of a Brunswick pool table are not just important for identification purposes but also contribute to the overall quality and longevity of the table. The choice of materials reflects Brunswick's commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, ensuring that their tables provide superior performance and durability.

Ornamental details

The ornamental details on a Brunswick pool table can provide clues as to its age and model. Here are some examples of such details:

Intricate Carvings and Inlays

Brunswick tables are known for their intricate carvings and inlays, which can vary across different models and time periods. These decorative elements can be unique to certain models, providing important identification markers.

Ornamental Blocks and Leg Designs

Some Brunswick tables feature ornamental blocks with projections, adding a distinctive touch to the overall design. The legs of these tables may also have specific designs, such as being capped with square blocks or featuring Egyptian moldings.

Pearl Sights

Pearl sights are small, round markers inlaid into the table's surface, often made of mother-of-pearl or another luminous material. They serve as aiming points for players and can add a touch of elegance to the table's design.

Metal Nameplates

Brunswick tables often feature metal nameplates, either with the full company name or a monogram with the letter "B". These nameplates can be found on various parts of the table, such as the legs or the frame.

Creative Colouring and Inset Decorations

Brunswick tables may also feature creative colouring effects and inset decorations. For example, the Amaranth model has a simple yet unique appearance, with carved ornaments on the legs and head blocks, while the wood construction of the Regina model is made of various kinds of hardwood with different grain patterns.

Frequently asked questions