Inter-WarGerman, c.1922, Walther Model 8 First Variation Semi-Automatic Pocket Pistol, 6.35mm, Serial No. 403902, Old Spec/Pre-EU Spec Deactivated - 16
SKU / Ref. No: JAQ#BDE_010720263297
£550.00
A scarce early First Variation Walther Model 8, manufactured circa 1922 and retaining matching serial number 403902, original Crown/N commercial proof marks, both original blue enamel grip medallions, the correct "W" marked magazine, and its highly desirable pre-EU specification deactivation with functioning cocking and dry-firing action—an increasingly difficult early Walther pocket pistol to find in such original condition.
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*German, c.1922, Walther Model 8 First Variation Semi-Automatic Pocket Pistol, 6.35mm, Serial No. 403902, Old Spec/Pre-EU Spec Deactivated*
An original First Variation Walther Model 8 semi-automatic pocket pistol manufactured by Carl Walther, Zella-Mehlis, Germany, chambered for the 6.35mm Browning (.25 ACP) cartridge. Introduced in 1920, the Model 8 became Walther's first major commercial success following the First World War and established the design principles that would later influence the famous PP and PPK series.
Serial number 403902 places this pistol within the First Variation production series, dating manufacture to approximately 1922. Walther began Model 8 production at serial number 390000 in 1920 rather than serial number one, and surviving collector research places this example firmly within the early 1922 production range. Early First Variation pistols are increasingly sought after due to their distinctive markings, original manufacturing features and comparatively limited production during the Weimar Republic.
The left side of the slide is crisply marked "Walther's Patent Mod.8" above the distinctive Walther banner trademark. The right side retains the full factory legend "Waffenfabrik Walther Zella-Mehlis (Thür.)", correctly found on early commercial production examples. Serial number 403902 is stamped to the frame, while commercial Crown over N (Krone/N) nitro proof marks are present on the slide, frame and barrel, confirming commercial German proofing prior to the introduction of Eagle over N proof marks in 1940.
Immediately ahead of the left grip panel is the original serif-lettered "F" (Feuer) safety indicator. On early First Variation Model 8 pistols this denotes the fire position. When the manual safety lever is moved into the safe position the "F" becomes concealed; when lowered ready to fire it is exposed. The crisp execution of this early serif-style marking is characteristic of early 1920s Walther production and is a desirable surviving feature that indicates the frame has not suffered heavy refinishing.
The pistol retains its original black chequered hard-rubber grip panels complete with both factory blue enamel grip medallions. The left-hand grip displays the intertwined "CW" Carl Walther monogram, while the right-hand grip carries the distinctive "6.35" calibre medallion identifying the pistol's chambering. Both inserts remain bright and well preserved, significantly enhancing the pistol's collector appeal.
The original detachable magazine is present and fitted with the correct early "W" stamped magazine base, another desirable First Variation feature.
Approximate Measurements: Overall length: approximately 13 cm (5.1 inches). Barrel length: approximately 7 cm. Calibre: 6.35mm (.25 ACP)
History Note:
The Walther Model 8 was introduced in 1920 as a compact, reliable pocket pistol intended for civilian, police and commercial markets during Germany's Weimar Republic. Featuring a simple blowback design and an innovative internal mechanism with comparatively few components, it quickly gained an international reputation for reliability and ease of manufacture. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s it became one of Walther's best-selling commercial pistols, with many privately purchased examples later accompanying German military officers, officials and police personnel during the Second World War.
Collectors divide Model 8 production into several distinct variations. Early First Variation pistols, such as this example, are recognised by their early slide legends, proof marks, grip medallions and safety markings. Surviving examples retaining these original features are becoming increasingly difficult to source, particularly those preserving their original finish, matching serial numbers and desirable older-specification deactivation.
*Condition*
Presented in very good original condition with an attractive honest patina consistent with over one hundred years of age. The slide legends, Walther banner trademark, serial number and Crown over N commercial proof marks remain clear and well defined throughout. The original hard-rubber grip panels remain structurally excellent, retaining both blue enamel factory medallions with particularly vibrant colour. The original "W" marked magazine accompanies the pistol. Mechanically, the pistol retains its desirable pre-EU specification functionality, with the slide operating correctly and the action cocking and dry-firing.
Deactivation Certificate Details:
Deactivated to pre-EU UK specification with accompanying Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House certificate. The certificate records Walther Model 8, Serial Number 403902, Calibre 6.35mm, Barrel Length 7 cm, Country of Origin: Germany, Certificate Number 127307, dated 25 June 2015. As an older specification deactivation, the pistol retains substantially more original mechanical operation than current standards, with the slide operating correctly and the action cocking and dry-firing.
JAQ#BDE_010720263297
