Charingworth Fiddle Vintage Satin 24 Piece Cutlery Set
Charingworth Fiddle Vintage Satin 24 Piece Cutlery Set
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Charingworth Fiddle Vintage 24 Piece Cutlery Set
The Charingworth Fiddle Vintage cutlery set brings traditional English and European tableware design into everyday use. This 24-piece set provides six complete table settings, each including a table knife, table fork, dessert spoon, and English teaspoon. Made from 18-0 stainless steel with a distinctive stone-tumbled satin finish, this cutlery has the subdued lustre of pewter and the character of vintage flea-market finds.
The Fiddle pattern originated in France and appeared in England around the 1760s, traditionally featuring prominent shoulders on the stem near the bowl. Charingworth's interpretation modernises this classic design whilst retaining its historic appeal. The result is cutlery that looks particularly striking alongside hand-made or decorative dinnerware.
Key features include:
- 18-0 stainless steel construction: Durable material with 3.5mm gauge for comfortable weight and balance
- Vintage satin finish: Stone-tumbled surface creates a soft, matte appearance that complements rustic or traditional table settings
- Traditional Fiddle pattern: Historic design dating to the 18th century, updated for contemporary use
- Complete table settings: Six sets of everyday essentials covering formal and informal dining needs
- 25-year manufacturer's warranty: Long-term protection against manufacturing defects
- Dishwasher safe: Practical for daily use without special care requirements
This set is designed for those who appreciate traditional aesthetics and want cutlery that serves as both functional tableware and a conversation piece. The vintage finish works well in settings that favour character over high polish.
What Customers Ask About Charingworth Fiddle Vintage Cutlery
What does 18-0 stainless steel mean for everyday use?
18-0 refers to the steel composition: 18% chromium and 0% nickel. This makes the cutlery less expensive than 18-10 stainless steel whilst still providing good corrosion resistance. It's slightly more magnetic than higher-nickel grades and may show water spots more readily, but it's perfectly suitable for daily use and dishwasher cleaning. The 3.5mm gauge provides substantial weight in the hand.
Will the vintage satin finish wear off over time?
The satin finish is created by stone-tumbling the stainless steel, which textures the surface rather than applying a coating. This means there's nothing to wear off or peel away. The finish may develop slight patina or show minor scratching with years of use, which typically enhances rather than detracts from the vintage aesthetic. Regular dishwasher use won't damage the finish.
How does this compare to traditional polished cutlery?
The main difference is visual rather than functional. Polished cutlery has a mirror-like shine, whilst this satin finish has a soft, matte appearance similar to pewter. The satin finish shows fewer water spots and fingerprints than high-polish finishes, making it potentially easier to maintain if you prefer not to dry cutlery immediately after washing. Both finishes perform identically in terms of durability and food safety.
What size dining table would this set suit?
This 24-piece set provides six place settings, making it suitable for households of 1-6 people or for hosting dinners of up to six guests. If you regularly entertain larger groups, you might want to order additional pieces or a second set. Measure your drawer space before ordering: six each of four pieces requires approximately 35-40cm of drawer width when organised in a standard cutlery tray.
Is this cutlery suitable for formal dining?
The Fiddle pattern has historical pedigree and is appropriate for formal use, though the vintage satin finish lends itself particularly well to informal or rustic table settings. If your formal dinnerware is traditional or hand-made in style, this cutlery may work beautifully. For ultra-contemporary or highly polished formal settings, a mirror-finish might be more conventional. Consider which aesthetic better matches your existing tableware.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Wash in warm soapy water or run through dishwasher to remove any manufacturing residue.
Daily cleaning: Dishwasher safe on standard cycles. The satin finish will not be damaged by dishwasher detergent. If washing by hand, use standard washing-up liquid and rinse thoroughly. The stone-tumbled finish naturally disguises water spots, but you can dry with a tea towel if preferred.
Avoid: Leaving cutlery in contact with acidic foods (vinegar, lemon juice) for extended periods may cause minor discolouration, though this is more of a concern with high-polish finishes. Don't use abrasive scourers, as these may create scratches visible even on the satin finish.
Storage: Store in a dry cutlery drawer or caddy. The 18-0 stainless steel is magnetic, so magnetic knife strips or storage solutions will work if desired.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware and tableware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Call us on +44 1737 222996 or visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't suit your table setting or you prefer a different finish, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've used the cutlery for meals.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage any pieces (dropped knife, bent fork, etc.), we'll replace them at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damaged items are acceptable.
Does the 25-year warranty cover normal wear and tear?
The manufacturer's 25-year warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, not wear from normal use. If a fork tine breaks during ordinary use within 25 years, that's covered. Surface scratching or patina development from years of use is considered normal wear. Contact us if you're unsure whether an issue is covered.
Can I buy additional pieces to expand this set?
Contact us at +44 1737 222996 to check availability of individual pieces or additional sets. Charingworth may offer serving pieces or additional place settings that match this pattern, but availability can vary. We'll help you find what's available.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
What's the difference between English teaspoons and standard teaspoons?
English teaspoons are typically slightly larger than coffee spoons but smaller than dessert spoons, measuring approximately 132mm in this set. They're the standard size for tea service in the UK and suitable for everyday use with hot beverages or small desserts.
Will this cutlery rust?
18-0 stainless steel is corrosion-resistant under normal conditions. You might see minor discolouration if you leave cutlery in prolonged contact with very acidic or salty foods, but rust is unlikely with proper care. If any rust spots do appear, they can typically be removed with a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water. The 25-year warranty covers manufacturing defects including corrosion issues not caused by misuse.
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“ If you’re in need of some new cutlery, have I got a treat for you, four delicious Studio William designs that are just crying out to be admired and used.” Read more about my views on Studio William in my article Under Review: Studio William Cutlery  by Andrew Bluett-DuncanArt of Living - Director |
