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Vintage K&E / Keuffel & Esser LEROY Mechanical Lettering Set
Offered here is a vintage K&E / Keuffel & Esser LEROY mechanical lettering and drafting set in its fitted wooden storage case.
The set includes six lettering templates, seven lettering pen tips/nibs, an adjustable K&E LEROY scriber and the other components shown in the listing photographs.
About the LEROY Lettering System
Before computer-aided drafting and digital typography became standard, LEROY lettering systems were widely used by draftsmen, engineers, architects, mapmakers and technical illustrators to create neat, consistent lettering on drawings and maps.
The user places the LEROY scriber on the selected lettering template. One tracing point follows the engraved letter or numeral while another guide follows the long straight groove in the template. The mechanical arm transfers that movement to an attached lettering pen, reproducing the selected character on the drawing surface.
Era & Identification
The original instruction panel inside the lid is marked Copyright 1950 by Keuffel & Esser Co. Based on the markings, styling and documented history of the LEROY line, this set is consistent with K&E equipment from the 1950s era.
The 1950 copyright date refers to the instruction material and should not be interpreted as proof that this exact set was manufactured in 1950.
Included
- Original fitted wooden K&E LEROY case
- 6 LEROY lettering templates
- 7 lettering pen tips / nib assemblies
- K&E LEROY adjustable mechanical scriber
- Additional small accessories shown in the photographs
- Original-style instruction panel mounted inside the case lid
Important Completeness Note
All six lettering templates shown fit within the original fitted case. However, K&E produced numerous LEROY set configurations with different quantities and combinations of templates and accessories.
The original factory configuration of this particular set has not been independently verified. Accordingly, this set is not being represented as factory complete. Please use the photographs as the definitive record of exactly what is included.
Condition
The set is in good overall vintage condition with normal signs of age, storage and prior use to the wooden case, metal components, templates and accessories.
The finish on the ball at the small end of the LEROY scriber has begun to flake/chip. This area is clearly shown in the close-up listing photographs.
The wooden case, fitted interior, instruction panel and hardware show normal age-related cosmetic wear. No attempt has been made to represent the set as unused or fully factory complete.
Historical Interest
K&E LEROY equipment was widely used in professional drafting rooms during the hand-drafting era. The system provided engineers, architects and technical illustrators with a repeatable way to produce uniform lettering before CAD and computer-generated typography largely replaced mechanical lettering equipment.
This set is appealing both as a collectible example of vintage drafting technology and as a display or working accessory for a traditional drafting setup.
Please Note
Please examine all photographs carefully for template markings, accessories, wear and overall condition. The photographs show the exact contents being offered and should be considered the final reference for what is included.
The buyer will receive the exact K&E LEROY lettering set shown in the listing photographs.
