Scherk "Vollendete" Cologne W. E. Refill Case: D.R.P./D.R.G.M., Berlin c. 1930

Scherk Eau de Cologne Vollendete W. E. Pack D.R.P. D.R.G.M. circa 1930 Berlin. This highly interesting and curious collector's item of German cosmetic history comes directly from the golden era of the Weimar Republic. It is a so-called Scherk W. E. Pack for the exquisite Eau de Cologne Vollendete by the famous Berlin company Scherk. The dimensions: approx. 5.5 x 2 x 7.5 cm. This small metal case is far more than just a beautiful flacon, it is a genuine document of its time. The abbreviations D.R.P.a. and D.R.G.M. adorn the casing, proving that this ingenious refill system was protected as a German Reich Patent and Utility Model. The system was based on a brilliant idea: instead of constantly buying expensive, elaborate flacons, one only purchased the thin walled glass vial with the metal portioner inside for a cheap 95 Pfennig. The valuable and sturdy metal case was kept as a travel companion or for the handbag. The small instruction manual inside reveals the entire product range of the Scherk brand that could be filled with these W. E. bottles, including Eau de Cologne, mouthwash, hair tonic, aftershave, and facial toner. This proves that it was a versatile, but also very high quality promotional item for the entire care line. This special pack with the "Vollendete" fragrance testifies to the elegance and ingenuity of the late 1920s or early 1930s in Berlin, when the Scherk brand celebrated its peak. It is a must have for collectors of pre war cosmetics and German industrial history. Traces of use commensurate with age. The bottle is empty, bottle and case are offered without a display.