1940s–1950s Vintage JW Roberts Ferobestos Advertising Notepad Case.

A wonderfully unusual mid-century vintage metal notepad case, produced as an advertising piece for JW Roberts Ltd and their “Ferobestos ‘Limpet’ Asbestos” product — a fascinating and highly collectible snapshot of industrial Britain.

Crafted in a lightweight goldtone metal, the case has a sleek, elongated rectangular form with a subtly textured reverse and a personalised monogram “JWR” to the outer, adding a bespoke touch that hints at its original owner. The front opens via a hinged lid to reveal the original paper notepad inside, printed with “Ferobestos ‘Limpet’ Asbestos,” along with engraved branding to the inner lid reading “J.W. Roberts Ltd.”

An additional maker’s mark, “Seluart, Worcester, England,” is engraved along the inner edge, giving further authenticity and grounding the piece firmly in British manufacturing history.

The notepad itself shows signs of use, with several pages removed over time, but many still remain — enhancing its charm and making it feel like a genuine working object from its era rather than just a display piece.

Measuring approximately 4.5 x 2.5 inches, this is a compact and tactile piece, ideal for collectors of advertising memorabilia, industrial history, or unusual vintage desk accessories. In good vintage condition, with light surface wear and patina to the metal in keeping with age, and partial use to the internal notepad as shown.