I've used both antique scuttles and make shift ones. I've found that you need to be careful with the dimensions of the older scuttles. The ones that I have aren't deep enough for the way that I work my soaps or creams. You also have to be careful with the paints that they used if you're going to microwave the water to warm it.
I've found that small microwave safe cookware fit together nicely and have a clean modern appearance and prove to be very functional.