Solingen Germany PB Advertising Pen Knife – Duncan Industries – Circa 1950s - Mother-of-Pearl Celluloid

This elegant multi-blade advertising pen knife was crafted in Solingen, West Germany, and customized for Duncan Industries—an industrial company known for manufacturing automotive and industrial valves. It features beautiful faux mother-of-pearl celluloid handles with a crisp etched company logo and an unusual set of five functional tools:

Pen Blade

Nail File

Scissors

Screwdriver/Cap Lifter

Small Pen Blade or Cuticle Tool

Tang is marked on the main blade:
SOLINGEN / GERMANY
Opposite tang bears a boxed logo with “PB” in two of four squares—attributed to a Solingen contract manufacturer.

Features:

Maker: Unknown Solingen Manufacturer (likely Paulus Bros.)

Origin: Solingen, West Germany

Production Era: Circa 1950s

Blades/Tools: 5 (Pen Blade, File, Scissors, Screwdriver/Bottle Opener, Cuticle Tool)

Handle: Faux Pearl Celluloid with Metal Inlay – Duncan Industries Logo

Closed Length: Approx. 3 1/8"

Condition: See detailed notes below

Condition Notes:
Good vintage condition. Tools show light handling wear and light patina. All blades open and close smoothly with snap. Handle covers are intact with a rich shimmer and minor scuffing. Inlay logo is sharp and legible. A well-preserved and striking mid-century industrial promo knife.

History Note:
During the post-war export boom, Solingen produced millions of high-quality pen knives for industrial branding across the U.S. and Europe. Duncan Industries, a now-defunct manufacturer tied to automotive valves and parts, used this model as a practical and impressive advertising giveaway. The "PB" mark suggests manufacture by Paulus Bros. or a similar private-label firm in Solingen’s renowned cutlery district.

Collector’s Note:
A fine piece for collectors of advertising knives, Solingen cutlery, or mid-century industrial design. With its rich mother-of-pearl handle and useful toolset, it bridges the line between form and function. A compact, beautiful relic of business history.

*All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos. By purchasing a knife from this shop, you confirm that you are at least 18 years of age. Feel free to reach out with any questions!