Late 19th-early 20th century 33 foot linen tape measure by John Rabone & Sons
John Rabone and Sons leather cased tape measure
A beautiful antique linen 33 foot tape measure by John Rabone and Sons, No. 390.
Rabone were a well renowned maker of tape measures with many patents for their designs which they presented around the world. They were founded in the late 18th century and like many old companies, changed their name over the decades. At the time they were called John Rabone and Sons was from 1877 into the 1930s. This measure is from that period.
A feature which dates it further is the Links to the reverse, where there were 25 links to a Pole, 6 poles being around 100 feet. This unit of measurement was originally developed for surveying land in the 1620s by Edmund Gunter and has long ceased to be used.
It is pulled out with a brass loop and wound back in with a fold out brass winder.
The tape and its leather case are both in a well used but still very serviceable condition.
A very elegant and useful item; an ideal gift for the avid sewer or lover of vintage decor.
The case measures 9.5cm in diameter.
John Rabone and Sons leather cased tape measure
A beautiful antique linen 33 foot tape measure by John Rabone and Sons, No. 390.
Rabone were a well renowned maker of tape measures with many patents for their designs which they presented around the world. They were founded in the late 18th century and like many old companies, changed their name over the decades. At the time they were called John Rabone and Sons was from 1877 into the 1930s. This measure is from that period.
A feature which dates it further is the Links to the reverse, where there were 25 links to a Pole, 6 poles being around 100 feet. This unit of measurement was originally developed for surveying land in the 1620s by Edmund Gunter and has long ceased to be used.
It is pulled out with a brass loop and wound back in with a fold out brass winder.
The tape and its leather case are both in a well used but still very serviceable condition.
A very elegant and useful item; an ideal gift for the avid sewer or lover of vintage decor.
The case measures 9.5cm in diameter.
