120 year old Professor Hoffmann Puzzle!

In his iconic and seminal book Puzzles Old and New, Professor Hoffmann described the "The Switchback" puzzle (See second photo.), as one of several "Puzzles Dependent on Dexterity and Perseverance."  The late great Edward Hordern (after whom the IPP Puzzle Exchange is named), in his generously illustrated update of Professor Hoffmann's book, used “Par Monts et Par Vaux” (“Over Hill and Over Dale”) as an example of “The Switchback.”  (See second photo.)  This is the puzzle I am offering.  Based on Edward’s estimate, the puzzle is between 120 and 135 years old.  The puzzle consists of a corked (at both ends) glass tube containing three metal balls, two larger and one smaller.  The object of the puzzle is to manipulate the two larger balls into the outer two dimples in the glass tube, and to manipulate the smaller ball into the middle dimple.  Note that the dimples can be seen at the TOP of the glass tube in the first illustration.

“Par Monts et Par Vaux” was manufactured by Simonin-Cuny, one of three classic French puzzle manufacturers.  The glass tube measures 4 inches (10 cm) in length and comes compete in its original box, which is in terrific condition.  This is rare opportunity to own this classic museum quality antique Professor Hoffmann puzzle.  Please let me know if you have any questions concerning my offering of “Par Monts et Par Vaux.”

I will mail “Par Monts et Par Vaux” within the US as a ground advantage (first class) package for around $6.00, or at insured priority mail pricing for $11.00, if preferred.  I am happy to ship internationally at cost (for around $22, depending on country), but I cannot always guarantee that overseas packages can be insured.  Please do not send payment until postage cost is determined.

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