Emma Bridgewater Seconds Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate Review: A Patriotic Bargain

Emma Bridgewater's Union Jack designs have long been a favourite for those who love to bring a touch of British spirit to their table. The 'Truly Great' range, featuring bold typography and the iconic flag, is both playful and elegant. But what happens when you opt for a 'seconds' piece? In this review, we take a close look at the Emma Bridgewater Seconds Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate, exploring its design, quality, and whether it's a worthy addition to your collection.

Seconds items from Emma Bridgewater offer a fantastic opportunity to own beautifully crafted pottery at a reduced price, with only minor imperfections that rarely affect usability. If you're considering adding this Union Jack plate to your tableware, read on to see how it performs in everyday use and how it compares to first-quality pieces.

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate features a striking central Union Jack motif, surrounded by the bold 'Truly Great' lettering in a classic serif font. The design is printed on a cream earthenware base, giving it a vintage feel that complements both modern and traditional table settings. The medium size (8.5 inches) is perfect for main courses, salads, or even as a decorative wall plate. The patriotic theme makes it an excellent choice for national celebrations, family gatherings, or simply adding a cheerful note to everyday meals.

What sets this plate apart is the balance between the flag design and the typography. The Union Jack is rendered in vivid red, white, and blue, while the lettering adds a witty, confident statement. It's a design that sparks conversation and brings a smile to the table. Whether you're serving a Sunday roast or a casual pasta dish, this plate elevates the dining experience with its unmistakable British character.

• Bold Union Jack motif with 'Truly Great' lettering for a patriotic statement.
• Cream earthenware base adds a vintage, rustic charm.
• 8.5-inch diameter ideal for main courses or decorative use.

What Does 'Seconds' Mean?

Emma Bridgewater's 'Seconds' range consists of items that have minor cosmetic flaws, such as small specks, slight colour variations, or tiny glaze irregularities. These imperfections are carefully assessed and do not affect the structural integrity or food safety of the piece. For the Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate, you might notice a faint dot in the glaze or a slightly off-centre print, but these are often barely visible unless you look closely.

Buying seconds is a brilliant way to save money while still enjoying the full charm of Emma Bridgewater pottery. Many collectors actively seek out seconds for everyday use, reserving first-quality pieces for special occasions. The savings can be significant, making it easier to build a complete set or mix and match with other patterns. Just be prepared for minor quirks that add character rather than detracting from the piece.

• Minor cosmetic flaws only—no impact on durability or safety.
• Significant savings compared to first-quality plates.
• Ideal for everyday dining or expanding a collection on a budget.

Quality and Durability in Everyday Use

Despite being a 'seconds' item, the Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate maintains the same robust earthenware construction as first-quality pieces. It feels substantial in the hand and has a satisfying weight that suggests longevity. The glaze is smooth and easy to clean, though hand washing is recommended to preserve the print and prevent any potential chipping. After several weeks of daily use, the plate shows no signs of wear—the colours remain vibrant, and the glaze has held up well against cutlery marks.

One thing to note is that the plate is microwave and dishwasher safe, but like all hand-decorated pottery, it's best to avoid extreme temperature changes. The seconds imperfections we observed were a tiny glaze bubble on the rim and a slight misalignment of the lettering, but neither affected the plate's functionality. If you're someone who appreciates handmade character, these 'flaws' actually add to the plate's story and uniqueness.

• Sturdy earthenware construction withstands regular use.
• Hand washing recommended to preserve the decorative print.
• Minor seconds flaws are purely cosmetic and do not affect performance.

Comparing to Other Emma Bridgewater Dinner Plates

If you're already familiar with Emma Bridgewater's standard dinner plates, such as the Blue Star Medium Dinner Plate, 8.5 Inch, you'll notice the Union Jack Truly Great plate shares the same size and shape. The weight and feel are very similar, making it easy to mix and match with other patterns for a curated tablescape. The Union Jack design is bolder and more statement-making compared to the subtle star motif, so it works well as an accent piece or in a themed setting.

For those who love the brand's classic patterns but want something with a bit more personality, the Union Jack plate is a fantastic choice. It pairs beautifully with simpler designs like polka dots or hearts, allowing the flag to take centre stage. If you're building a collection, consider adding a few of these plates alongside neutral pieces for a dynamic yet cohesive look.

• Same size and shape as other medium dinner plates for easy mixing.
• Bolder design works well as an accent or statement piece.
• Pairs nicely with polka dot or heart patterns for a curated table.

Who Should Buy This Plate?

The Emma Bridgewater Seconds Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate is perfect for patriots, collectors, and anyone who loves British-inspired homeware. It's an excellent gift for expats, history buffs, or friends who enjoy hosting themed dinner parties. The seconds pricing makes it accessible for those who want to try the pattern without committing to full-price items. It's also a great starter piece for new Emma Bridgewater enthusiasts.

If you're a seasoned collector, this plate can fill gaps in your Union Jack collection or serve as a durable everyday alternative to your cherished first-quality pieces. For those who appreciate the charm of handmade pottery, the minor seconds imperfections only add to the plate's authenticity and story. Just be aware that if you're a perfectionist who dislikes any irregularities, you might prefer to invest in a first-quality version.

• Ideal for British-themed dining and patriotic celebrations.
• Great value for new collectors or budget-conscious shoppers.
• Seconds imperfections add character for those who appreciate handmade quirks.

The Emma Bridgewater Seconds Union Jack Truly Great Medium Dinner Plate offers exceptional value for money without compromising on style or durability. Its bold design and sturdy construction make it a joy to use daily, while the seconds pricing makes it an easy addition to any tableware collection. If you're ready to add a touch of British pride to your dining table, explore the full range of Emma Bridgewater dinner plates and find your perfect match.