Piece type

Vintage cast iron waffle irons

Stovetop waffle irons are the trickiest vintage cast iron buy because they are three-part purchases: two paddles from the same model, a hinge that closes them flat without play, and the base ring that sits over the stove opening. Most listings show only the closed iron, so ask for photos of both inside faces, the hinge and the base, and ask whether the base is included. Griswold's American and New American No. 8 irons usually list for about $150–280 complete; Wagner No. 8 irons for about $110–220; Griswold's heart-shaped Heart & Star irons are a separate, pricier model. Check every part for cracks, check that the hinge isn't seized with rust, and expect handles to be worn or replaced. Paddles sold without a base are worth noticeably less.