Noritake
Free Flight by Noritake China
Best choice for vintage collectors and lovers of whimsical table settings.
Elevate your dining experience with the Noritake Free Flight (B981) 10 5/8" Dinner Plate. This exquisite piece showcases a unique pattern featuring 'Primastone' and whimsical 'Hot Air Balloons', adding a touch of classic charm to any table setting. Crafted from durable stoneware, it's designed for both formal occasions and everyday use. As part of a collection discontinued in 1986, this plate offers a special appeal for collectors and those seeking timeless elegance.
$19.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
3905
/ 10810
#3905 in Plates
Price vs Category Average
-77%
Below average
Piece Type
1058
/ /" Dinner Plate
Who it's for
- Mid-century design enthusiasts seeking authentic vintage flair
- Homeowners prioritizing durable, high-quality porcelain dinnerware
- Investors looking for collectible, value-retaining vintage tableware
Who should skip it
- Busy households requiring microwave and dishwasher convenience
- Practical buyers wanting easily replaceable everyday dinnerware
- Minimalists preferring neutral or contemporary table settings
Performance breakdown
Collectibility
Discontinued status makes this a rare find for dedicated Noritake enthusiasts.
Material Durability
Stoneware construction offers robust resistance to daily wear and tear.
Design Uniqueness
Whimsical hot air balloon motif provides a distinct, nostalgic visual appeal.
Versatility
Balances formal elegance with the resilience required for everyday dinner service.
Surface Area
Generous 10 5/8 inch diameter accommodates substantial portions with ease.
Aesthetic Timelessness
Classic Primastone finish maintains a charming, vintage character on any table.
Key Specs
Piece Type
10 5/8" Dinner Plate
Pattern Name
Free Flight (B981)
Material
Stoneware
Shape
Round
Brand
Noritake
Discontinued Year
1986
Diameter
10.625 inches
Occasion
Formal
Features
- Unique 'Primastone' and 'Hot Air Balloons' design
- Discontinued Free Flight collection piece
- Collectible value
- Durable stoneware construction
- Ideal for dinner service
- Versatile round shape
What customers say
The Noritake 'Free Flight' pattern garners overwhelmingly positive sentiment, rooted deeply in nostalgia and its elegant mid century aesthetic. Reviewers consistently praise the pattern's timeless sophistication and inherent quality, noting its durability and lasting luster even after decades of use. The design is celebrated for being delicate yet resilient. The primary challenge centers on its discontinued status. Collectors express significant frustration over the high cost and difficulty sourcing replacement pieces, which impacts the perceived value of acquiring individual items. Despite acquisition hurdles, the consensus confirms 'Free Flight' is a beloved heritage item, highly valued for its enduring quality and aesthetic appeal that supports family tradition.
Know before you buy
The Noritake Free Flight dinner plate measures 10 5/8 inches (10.625 inches) in diameter.
This piece is crafted from durable stoneware, which is known for its sturdiness and weight compared to traditional fine china.
Because these pieces are vintage, it is recommended to hand wash them to preserve the integrity of the 'Primastone' finish and the whimsical hot air balloon design over time.
While these plates hold significant collectible value due to their discontinued status, they are constructed from durable stoneware and are perfectly suitable for regular dinner service.
The Primastone material typically features a smooth, durable glaze that provides a subtle sheen, making it both practical for dining and visually appealing for display.
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$20