A. Zoller was active around 1851-1869 in Frauenfeld, Canton of Thurgau, Switzerland, and known for making target pistols and rifles (see “Heer Der Neue Stockel, Volume 2,” page 1437). The fabulous browned barrels have "ACIER" (upper left), "A. ZOLLER A FRAUENFELD" (top), and "FONDU." inlaid in gold, recessed muzzles for loading with the included starter, dovetailed blade front sights, and two silver inlaid bands at the breeches. The upper tangs have screw adjustable rear sights. The often missing sight adjustment tool is included. The actions are equipped with single set triggers. The French gray finished remaining components have nearly full coverage traditional scroll engraving, and the figured walnut stocks are high relief carved en suite and have fluted grips. The stocks are carved in the style of the German family of gun makers Kuchenreuter and feature a fine curled lip near the barrel breech, indicating the craftsmanship of a quality stock maker. The locks and furniture are finished as to simulate silver inlay. This pistol set is encased in a French fitted oak traveling case with carrying handle on the hinged side of the lid. The case contains a full complement of loading and maintenance tools. Also included is a detailed letter from Raymond J. Petry of Fine Arms and Armour about this pair. Actively involved in the collector arms market for over 50 years, Petry states he has seldom encountered unaltered 19th century target sets such as this pair, remarking as to the condition and originality “as the day it left the hands of the gunmaker, let alone a high quality maker as was Zoller”. These pistols are from the estate of the noted collector Dr. Lew Katzovitz of Detroit, a long time member of the American Society of Arms Collectors.

Extremely fine with nearly 98% original brown finish on the barrel with faint patination. Strong original niter blue remains on the percussion nipple and rear sight. The stock is very fine with mild handling evidence. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good with a light warp to the front area of the lid. The accessories are generally fine and have minor storage wear.

As described in "A."

Extremely fine with nearly 98% original brown finish on the barrel with faint patination. Strong original niter blue remains on the percussion nipple and rear sight. The stock is very fine with mild handling evidence. Mechanically excellent. A seldom encountered high condition set of Zoller target pistols for the serious collector. One would look a lifetime to find a better conditioned set. As Raymond Petry notes in his analysis, this is a set you could be proud to call your own.