Best Made S. R. and Co.

[Cooldude386]

I have a no. 8. frying pan I am trying to identify.  It is Best Made, S.R. and Co., No. 8, 1238.  Can anyone tell me more about it other than it was made by Griswold.

[Steve_Stephens]

Best Made is Sears tradename and Griswold made the pan for Sears (Sears Robuck & Co.) right around late 20s-early 30s.  Made in a number of sizes from 3-10 (probably not all those sizes) though I don't know about larger sizes.  Some covers made and a number of other pieces and styles.

Steve

[Cooldude386]

Thank you.  Are they common?  Where would I find a lid to match mine?  What to you think it would run?  Is the pan worth more as is or with matching lid?

[Steve_Stephens]

Not really common George.  Best bet is to watch ebay (for a LONG time maybe) for a cover and/or run a wanted ad here.  They are out there but will probably take some time to find.  Since an 8 is one of the more common sizes you maybe luck out.  Worth more with cover; probably 3 times as much for the set as just the skillet.

Steve

[Cooldude386]

Steve, thank you again.  How would I identify the lid that matches?  Does it have any specific markings?  Do you have a picture of the lid or know where I could find one?  Still don't seem to find any ironware by Best Made no matter what search engine I use.

Thanks

[Steve_Stephens]

The Best Made cover will be pattern number 1242 for a low domed cover No.8 size.  Skillets were made in sizes 3-10 and covers in 8-10.  The top of the cover will be smooth without any markings I think unless it might have the size marked on top.  Inside the markings should be similiar to what your skillet says and there will be basting rings.  Handle should look like Griswold's skillet handles.  I don't know of a photo but one of the books may have a photo.  John Myers in Idaho knows about these Best Made pans but he's not a member currently.  I don't know if I have his phone number.  Will Person, WAGS member, may know more.
Steve

[Mark Ritter]

This is a dutch oven cover. The markings I believe would be the same.

[Mark Ritter]

Top side.

[Cooldude386]

Wow!  I think that just may be the dutch oven lid I gave one of my nephews a few years ago when I gave them each a couple iron skillets to use instead of the TFAL stuff they were using.  I guess I will have to go beg it back from him if I he still has it. I remember the rings.  At least it is still in the family.