I recently bought this wood surveyor's case at the antique store where I also sell. It has a great worn patina and lovely orange color. I'm going to put it on my desk and keep supplies for marking items in it.
Not having bought anything like this before I decided to take a look at what's out there for these type of cases.
Image via RubertsGeneralStore
These type of cases were well constructed with dovetail joints, leather straps and sturdy hinges. Cases with surveying tools in working condition fetch a good price.
Image via chrissy and shaun
Perhaps this case was used for storing a tripod. It looks really nice here as part of a display.
image via liveauctioneers
I wasn't able to find another orange case like mine, but I found this green one with instruments and a tripod. I imagine that mine was painted orange to make it easier to spot when working outdoors.
image via neatandgreen
Not only are these cases functional, they look good in different types of decor: industrial, country, urban country, shabby chic and contemporary.
image via MODERNFifty
While searching for another orange case like mine, I found this orange metal set of drawers and awesome vignette. If you like the color orange as I do, you have to be careful that your decor doesn't end up looking like Halloween. In this setting it certainly doesn't and that chair is stellar.