Collection: Shop by Designer - Whiting & Davis

In 1876 William H. Wade, Edward P. Davis and Louis Heckman founded the manufacturing and jewellery concern known as Wade Davis & Company. Souvenir spoons, jewellery, sterling silver stick pins, bar pins, earrings and bracelets were among items listed for sale when the company began trading in August.
During the year of 1892, Charles Whiting used the skills he gained during this time working at Wade & Davis to handcraft what is said to be the first Whiting & Davis mesh purse. He was using the ancient skill of crafting chainmail to make luxurious accessories! The purse was tiny, only three inches square. A simple twist closure ensured it could be securely closed and opened with relative ease.
It is said that the first mesh purses were made from precious metals.
Mesh bags are deceptively tough. These purses were made out of the same sort of metal links used in armour. Some people refer to them as armour or armor mesh purses. In the late 1800s, the mediaeval look was all the rage, so chainmail-like coin purses that attached to a chatelaine were stylish accessories for Victorian ladies
Now the machines were patented and in use, Whiting & Davis began to dominate the market of mesh jewellery and accessories.
At first, the firm only had a few working machines. Eventually, the company had  five hundred working machines and a highly skilled workforce which ensured the company was history in the making. Such a sound footing that the company is still in business today.