Every now and then, something pops up online that instantly transports you back in time. It might be a household item, a toy, a kitchen gadget—or in this case, an object so iconic, yet so forgotten, that recognizing it is practically a badge of honor.

So… see this object? If you know what it is, congratulations—you’re officially vintage.

🕰️ The Object in Question: The Hand-Crank Pencil Sharpener
Mounted on the wall of every classroom from the 60s to the 90s, this sturdy, metal box with a crank on the side was the gateway to perfectly sharpened pencils—and the occasional excuse to stretch your legs in class.

If you recognized it instantly, you probably:

Remember the satisfying sound of the crank turning

Had a favorite “sweet spot” pencil length

Occasionally jammed it and prayed the teacher wouldn’t notice

Were secretly jealous of the kid who got to empty the shavings tray

These days, kids tap on tablets and click mechanical pencils. But back then? Sharpening your No. 2 pencil was practically a ceremonial rite of passage.