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📏 ANTIQUE c. 1920s–1940s LUFKIN No. 386 — 12-INCH FOLDING WOOD & BRASS CALIPER RULE — MADE IN USA 📏
A BEAUTIFULLY PRESERVED PIECE OF AMERICAN TOOLMAKING HISTORY!
An exceptionally attractive vintage Lufkin No. 386 folding caliper rule, featuring rich reddish-brown wood, naturally aged brass fittings, finely graduated measuring scales, and an ingenious integrated sliding caliper.
Believed to date from approximately the 1920s–1940s, this compact American-made instrument is a wonderful example of the precision, craftsmanship, and practical ingenuity associated with traditional measuring tools.
Its deep, rosewood-like coloration contrasts beautifully with the mellow golden-brown patina of the brass. The interior wood is somewhat lighter, revealing the warmth and character of the grain.
🔎 CONSTRUCTION & DETAILS
• Manufacturer: Lufkin
• Model: No. 386
• Country of manufacture: United States
• Estimated period: c. 1920s–1940s
• Type: Folding combination rule with sliding caliper
• Measuring length: 12 inches
• Construction: Wood with brass fittings and reinforced joints
• Clearly marked LUFKIN, No. 386, and MADE IN U.S.A.
• Graduated wooden measuring scales with contrasting dark markings
• Brass sliding caliper with engraved graduations
• Traditional folding hinges with metal reinforcement and secured fasteners
• Compact, pocket-sized design
The folding construction allows this measuring instrument to transform from a remarkably small, easily stored object into a functional measuring rule with an integrated caliper.
📐 DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
Folded measurements:
• Length: 3¼ inches
• Width: 1 inch
• Thickness: 5/16 inch
• Weight: 47.01 grams / 1.658 ounces
✨ CONDITION — EXCELLENT VINTAGE
Beautifully preserved in excellent vintage condition!
The wood displays attractive reddish-brown coloration with visible grain and well-preserved measuring graduations. The brass retains its aged patina, with fine scratches, tarnish, and natural surface discoloration.
Minor handling marks and edge wear are present, consistent with age and historical use. The metal fittings and folding joints appear intact.
Both the folding mechanism and sliding caliper operate smoothly and easily.
The piece has not been polished or artificially brightened for presentation.
Although fully functional, this instrument is being offered primarily as a historical collectible and decorative object rather than as a calibrated precision measuring tool.
An appealing addition to a collection of antique woodworking tools, machinist instruments, vintage measuring devices, or American industrial PHOTOGRAPHY
All 24 photographs show the actual item being offered, including detailed close-ups of the wood, brass fittings, hinges, markings, graduated scales, and sliding caliper.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and provide the best representation of its appearance and SHIPPING
• Ships same or next business day
• FREE USPS Ground Advantage within the United States
• Fully insured with tracking
• Carefully and securely packaged
• Ships in a sturdy cardboard box — never a bubble INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
• FREE through International Shipping
OR
• USPS Priority Mail International
• Flat rate: $68.95
• Insurance and tracking included
Buyer is responsible for any customs duties, VAT, brokerage fees, tariffs, taxes or other import charges imposed by their OFFERS & RETURNS
All serious offers considered.
All sales are final unless the item has been grossly misrepresented.