Tournus French Copper and Stainless Steel Saucepan (Non-Gold Professional Cookware)
Cookware / Saucepan · N/A - The item is copper-bodied with a stainless steel base plate. There are no gold alloys present.
Purity: 0K / None - This item contains no gold content. It is a composite of copper and stainless steel.
Type
Cookware / Saucepan
Purity
0K / None - This item contains no gold content. It is a composite of copper and stainless steel.
Gold Type
N/A - The item is copper-bodied with a stainless steel base plate. There are no gold alloys present.
Weight
1.2 - 1.8 kilograms (approximate for professional grade French copper)
Description
A vintage professional-grade French copper saucepan produced by Tournus. This kitchen staple features the classic copper exterior for superior heat conductivity, paired with a modern stainless steel base for durability. While it lacks precious metal content, it is highly prized by chefs for its performance and French culinary heritage.
Key Features
18/10 stainless steel base plate; bi-metal construction; cast handle; iconic Tournus castle hallmark.
Color & Finish
Polished copper exterior (currently oxidised to a dull brownish-orange) with a brushed stainless steel base plate.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Tournus Maker's Mark featuring a castle gate/tower icon; 'TOURNUS', 'MADE IN FRANCE', and '18-10' (referring to 18/10 stainless steel grade) stamped on the base.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 16cm to 20cm diameter; likely a 1.5 - 2.5 quart capacity saucepan.
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
N/A - Features a riveted black phenolic/bakelite handle.
Chain & Links
N/A - Smooth copper sidewalls with a flat, circular multi-ply base.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed copper shell with a bonded 'sandwich' stainless steel base plate. Industrial grade riveting for the handle.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Tournus castle logo; 'Made in France' stamp; bi-metal construction typical of mid-range French professional lines.
Origin & Maker
Tournus, Burgundy region of France. Renowned manufacturer of professional culinary equipment.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (approx. 1970s-1990s) Bourgeat/Tournus era.
Age Estimate
Circa 30-50 years old based on the handle style and the '18-10' stainless steel stamp.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of French culinary influence on domestic kitchens in the UK and USA during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The exterior copper shows heavy oxidation and a dark patina. The stainless steel base has numerous surface scratches from stove-top use. The handle rivet area shows signs of rust or heavy carbon buildup.
Value Estimate
Resale value of $40 - $85 USD depending on size and how well the copper polishes up. Melt value is negligible (base copper prices).
Care & Maintenance
Clean copper with a dedicated copper polish (like Wright's) or a lemon-salt paste to restore luster. Do not put in a dishwasher. Hand wash only.
Similar Items
Mauviel M'Heritage series, Falk Culinair copper pans, or Bourgeat professional copper.
Interesting Facts
Tournus was founded in 1910 in the town of Tournus, France. They were pioneers in mass-producing high-quality metals for both professional kitchens and hospital use.