HALL-MACK’S CORONADO line of bathroom accessories seems to be marketed for a long time. It is also featured prominently in this 1962 catalog, and it’s also the main line in my other catalog 1956. The line certainly seems prototypical of the postwar era — I see the shape of the end-pieces for the toilet paper and towels, in particular, everywhere.
Very amusing that there is an ash tray in the lineup. We also see an ashtray in the “relaxation unit,” which I’ve shown in the past here. I’ll have more images of the relaxation unit from the catalogs soon.
I like that 3-arm swing bar. Does anyone have it? The 9″ grab bar with soap holder – that also seems rare. And the teensy toothbrush holder – cool. Seems to me that chrome-plated soap dishes and toothbrush holders always start to de-laminate. Meanwhile, I really like the robe hooks – they are just the right size. Have you tried to shop for robe hooks new today? Another item that’s designed on steriods.
Interestingly, the Coronado seems to have a crystal (I read: glass) soap tray, while the top of the line Aristocrome line that I featured yesterday had Lucite. Today we would think that glass was higher-end. I wonder if the novelty of plastic was the appeal…
Finally, keep an eye out. In Feb. 2008, someone on ebay had four complete sets of MIB Hall-Mack for sale for $65 a set. Don’t you get all shivery just looking at this photo? I want to buy it all and save it for a deserving renovator! If you are in the market, and you keep the faith, the retro decorating gods may likewise send some your way.