1940's Vollrath #3 Cast Iron "Egg Skillet". Great gift idea!
Vollrath manufacturing has been making cookware for both gourmet and commercial kitchens for over 100 years. Their cast iron lines featured primarily their marked and unmarked skillets as well as other pieces, and are known to be slightly heavier than the other vintage pans. This #3 egg skillet has the traditional 3 marking on the front and sideways on the back. While they weigh slightly more than Griswold and Wagner, they are still very much lighter than modern cast iron, and have a fantastically smooth surface. Our skillets are restored and seasoned three times with our oil blend, and will arrive ready to use. The skillets darken with each use and will work into a deep dark finish! Sits flat and does not spin
DISCLAIMER: We have prepared this piece to be ready to use or displayed in a collection. All pieces are vintage, and therefore are not in perfect condition. Their history of use means small marks and inconsistencies, including residual carbon, which we feel give them a special charm. All items are sold as is, and we have done our best to present them as such. Please review all pictures and ask for further clarification if needed. Thank you! - Cast & Clara Bell
Cast & Clara Bell sells fully restored cast iron cookware, bakeware, dutch ovens, griddles, sad irons, bailed griddles, gem pans, muffin pans, kettles, skillets, trivets, lids, and much more! Brands like Griswold, Wagner, Sidney, WagnerWare, Wapak, Lodge, Favorite Piqua, Marietta, Orr & Painter, Erie, Griswold‘s Erie, Birmingham Stove & Range, Vollrath, Chicago Hardware Foundry, CHF, Martin Stove & Range as well as gatemarked unknown and specialty pieces are organized into categories. We offer collector‘s pieces, everyday users, and everything in between!
Cast Iron Skillet Size Guide: What Size Do You Need?
One of the most common questions we get is: What size skillet should I buy? Whether you're frying an egg or searing a full roast, choosing the right size is key to a great cooking experience.
Note: These sizes are general estimates and can vary by brand. For exact dimensions, always check the product photos and description on each listing.
🔍 Skillet Size Comparison
| Skillet Size | Approx. Diameter | Recommended For | Rarity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 5 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | VERY Hard to Find | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 3 | 6 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | No | 💲 |
| 4 | 6 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | Somewhat | 💲💲💲 |
| 5 | 7 inches | Side dishes, sautéing, single grilled cheese | No | 💲💲 |
| 6 | 8 inches | Side dishes, sautéing, omelets | No | 💲 |
| 7 | 9 inches | Side dishes, sautéing, omelets | Somewhat | 💲💲 |
| 8 | 10 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | No | 💲 |
| 9 | 11 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Somewhat | 💲💲 |
| 10 | 12 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Somewhat | 💲💲💲 |
| 11 | 13 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Yes | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 12 | 14 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, etc. | Yes | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 13 | 15 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, big batch meals | VERY Hard to Find | 💲💲💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 14 | 16 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, crowd cooking | Yes | 💲💲💲💲 |
🛠️ Buying Tips
- New to cast iron? Start with a size 8–10. They're versatile and great for daily cooking.
- Cooking for a crowd? Sizes 12–14 will feed everyone with room to spare.
- Have a glass cooktop? Look for listings marked "sits flat" — full contact is key.
- Looking to collect? Sizes 2, 11, 12, and 13 are rare and can be prized additions to a collection.
Still not sure which one’s right for you? Reach out anytime. We love helping folks find the perfect piece. Or dive deeper by reading more on our Cast & Clara Bell Blog.









