The Waterford Crystal Factory was a stunning and amazing sight to see and tour. This factory was founded in 1783 for the sole purpose of making "one-off trophy" pieces. These are used around the world for sports awards, entertainment industry awards, even the times square crystal ball that if featured at new years is made of crystal by this Waterford
establishment!.
In fact, they make 50,000 pieces per year.
As you can see, by these photo's the artists and designers love a challenge and will attempt to replicate the strangest things. The Grandfather clock you see above is not for sale as it is considered priceless. But, said our tour-guide, for insurance purposes it's valued at $150,000 euros.
establishment!.
In fact, they make 50,000 pieces per year.
As you can see, by these photo's the artists and designers love a challenge and will attempt to replicate the strangest things. The Grandfather clock you see above is not for sale as it is considered priceless. But, said our tour-guide, for insurance purposes it's valued at $150,000 euros.
It all begins with a wooden mold good for only 10 pieces. Then the technician grabs a glob of molten glass on the end of a hollow pipe and lowers it into the mold and begins to blow...making it hollow and filling the form of the mold. In short order it cools, is removed from the mold and cut to separate from the blowing tube. You see the results below.
Then the process of sanding, and bringing it on through the shop to completion begins. Here are some photos of the process.
Here is a glass cutter, following the designers pattern on the bowel free-hand! It was just amazing to watch. Below is an American Flag in process. Below the flag you see a viking ship in the making. It will include a glass sail!
Here is a photo of Larry with our tour guide who did an excellent job explaining what happens in the crystal factory. Below I will conclude with a few more photos including one in memory of "9-11".
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