Vintage Leather & Brass Measuring Tape – Sir John Soane's Museum
£85.00
Product description from their website:
A handsome vintage cloth measuring tape encased in a leather case with a brass winder. Portable tape measures of this kind have been an essential tool for architects and draughtsman for centuries and are now collectable items in their own right while still fulfilling their original practical function.
The linen tape measure is printed in inch increments (Imperial being the only prevailing system in use at the time of manufacture) and extends to 100 feet. Although somewhat cracked with age and use, the numerals can still be seen and it still functions as a tape measure.
The tape is pulled from the case using a brass ring and can be wound back into place with a brass winder that flips out for use and folds back preserve the flush surface of the case.
The leather case is stamped with the makers mark for Chesterman, a Sheffield company renowned for its innovation in the creation of measuring devices. The company was founded by inventor and industrialist James Chesterman (1792 - 1867), who in 1833 patented the spring-return linen tape measure. He went on to develop many innovative measuring devices including metallic woven and steel tape, while also serving as the first honorary secretary of Sheffield Football Club.
All our vintage items are sourced for Sir John Soane's Museum by expert buyer Michelle Mason, proprietor of vintage emporium Mason Painter on London's celebrated Columbia Road and author of books on London's best shops and how to buy and arrange vintage wares.
Mason scours a select range of antique markets in search of choice pieces which summon the Soanean spirit of eclecticism and appreciation of the beautiful (and the occasionally quirky).
- Linen tape measure enclosed in a leather case.
- Tape measure: 100ft or 3048cm.
- Dimensions of case: 15.5cm diameter, 3.5cm high.
Please note that all vintage pieces are one of a kind and are sold as seen, with wear and patina in keeping with their age, and are non-refundable. Please do contact us if you require further information about a particular piece.