This is a vintage Japanese crafted knife made in Seki, Japan by Seizo Imai. This is a prototype of the Parker Gypsy and has the problems explained below. It features blackened solid brass handles and a black tanto blade with the original factory edge. No markings. Comes in the box.
Seizo Imai was one Seki, Japan's finest craftsmen and most famous knifemakers of the modern era. Imai made knives for Parker, Frost, Browning, Explorer, Compass, Condor, and many others, including his own brands Imax and Seizo Imai. His custom Loveless style knives are works of art.
| Brand/Model: |
Imai tanto butterfly |
| Made in: |
Japan |
| Condition: |
Original factory edge is very sharp and looks unused, but the knife has handling wear from opening and closing. The latch does not stay in place when knife is in the closed position due to the rounded design of the handle, it tends to slide off as demonstrated in last picture. It does stay on in the open position due to reverse curvature of handle, though weakly. Also, the blade tends to get stuck in the handle when closed, so one side will open but the other is more difficult, could be dangerous while using. |
| Year Produced: |
circa 1980s |
|
Folder Closed, or Fixed Overall Length: |
4.8" long |
| Blade Material: |
Stainless Steel |
| Blade Length: |
4" long |
|
Handle: |
Solid Brass |
| Additional Notes: |
Rare vintage knife! |
| Knife Type: |
Folding |
| Number of Blades: |
1 |
| Lock Type: | |
| Opening Mechanism: |
Manual |
| Dexterity: |
Ambidextrous |
| Additional Terms: |
Buyer agrees to Automatic Knife Ordering Agreement |
