【New, Unused, Vintage】Iwachu Nambu Tekki Iron Kettle, Arare 5

【New, Unused】Long-term storage item. Received about 30 years ago, it has been stored without ever being used.

The following is information researched using COPILOT and Google AI:

- Brand: 【Iwachu】Tetsubin, Nambu Tetsubin (Arare Pattern)
- Color: Black
- Material: Cast Iron
- Internal Structure: Kiln-fired finish (oxide film), no enamel
- Accessories: Box, instruction manual
- Size: Standard type, approximately 1-1.5L

1. Bottom Stamp: A solid Iwachu stamp on the bottom.
This is proof of authenticity. Older Iwachu pieces often have simpler and more robust stamps than current ones.
2. Surface Pattern: The fine texture on the body is the Arare pattern (あられ), a representative pattern of Nambu Tetsubin. It is a classic Iwachu design and is commonly found on products from the Showa to early Heisei periods.
3. Interior Condition: The interior has a kiln-fired finish (oxide film) without enamel, a typical specification for authentic old tetsubin.
Some areas show exposed metal, but this is normal aging.
4. Handle (Tsuru): Movable. Almost all old Iwachu tetsubin have movable handles. The shape is also an old-fashioned round bar.
5. Lid Shape: The lid knob is round, and the lid has small holes on the side. This is also a common specification for older Iwachu tetsubin.
6. Estimated Age: Late Showa to early Heisei period (1980s-1990s)

Compared to the current Iwachu lineup,
older pieces are said to be thicker and heavier, and highly regarded for producing mellow-tasting hot water.

Thank you for looking.