Pyrex Silver Streak Model 1038 Red

Pyrex Silver Streak Model 1038 Red  Circa 1946

This is a used item.  The colored emulsion under the glass body couldn’t stand the heat and it started to roll and peel as you can see on this item. 

The metal parts of this iron also show normal wear. 

Designed in 1942-43 and produced for one year, 1946.

The postwar design era focused largely on improving all aspects of life at home for those who had maintained it during the war and those who were just returning. The remodeled electric iron was one among many postwar innovations, but this Silver Streak iron in particular epitomizes the design period. The Silver Streak’s aerodynamic form is immediately recognizable as a result of streamlining, a style that dominated the 1930s and focused on smooth lines, clean forms, and the impression of speed and efficiency. The addition of heat and fabric settings also streamlined the ironing process itself, as it removed guesswork from the chore and allowed the user to determine how much power would be required for individual laundry items, preventing burns and wasted energy.

What is most indicative of the Silver Streak’s place in postwar design, however, is what it is made of. Pyrex made its debut in 1915, developed by Corning Glass Works as a heat-resistant glass alternative to metal cookware. Pyrex’s market expanded during World War II due to the demanding nature of wartime manufacturing, which restricted the use of metal for all other products. This metal shortage led to innovative design substitutions, as seen here: where metal would normally have been used, the Silver Streak iron employs Pyrex. The heat-resistant glass that worked well in ovens could now prevent burnt hands while ironing, and its moldable nature allowed for a more ergonomic handle. Although this new use for Pyrex was a success, the colored emulsion under the glass body couldn’t stand the heat. As a result, the colorful Silver Streak – which also came in red, green, and silver, among other hues – was only produced for a short time.