1911 tape measure

[Divine Daisy]

I was asked in today's daily post to put up a photo of my newest antique tape measure. Its not very old, but is very sweet. It only quilified as an antique last year (has to be 100 years old)

The tape is linen and has 13 inches on it, the wood is boxwood. Measures just under an inch, the handle turns and winds the tape back, all working order, I was quite pleased with the latest addition to my collection.

um ok, I meant to put this in show and tell. Ooops

[MRoy]

Thanks for sharing Daisy! I may never find an old one, but I'll enjoy the search.

[sewbizzy]

What a special addition to your collection...thanks for sharing, Daisy!!!

[K. McEuen]

That is pretty cool, never seen anything like that before.

[Genny]

I have never seen one like this. thanks for sharing!

[SuzyQue]

Daisy---do you collect all types of antique sewing items or just measuring tapes? I have a small but growing collection of old sewing items, mostly from relatives sewing cabinets and auctions of friends sewing baskets. How did you date this tape? Love it...so cute!

[HandsOffItsMine]

Ohhh I too love that! Old sewing doodahhhs!

You go by the 100 rule for Antiques too, so do I. It seems to be a crap shoot in the States when you're in shops and in blogs.

[lilmouse]

Ms. Daisy, that is so cool; love it...what else do you collect?

[Divine Daisy]

I only collect tapes. In this case the date in on the actual linen of the tape but you can date silver ones by hallmark obviously and styles help too. The other way is what the tape itself in made of. Silk tapes are usually pre 1880. Lots of books on the subject, the rest is experiance. Be careful of ebay, whilst there are many on there ask questions. There are a lot from 1930 onwards that are advertising items. Lots of really fun ones. I have thought about collecting them but so far am sticking to my criteria

[janluna]

Daisy, that tape is really neat! I collect salt & pepper shakers. I had one set that said, "Occupied Japan." The guy at the antique store said that they were worth $75.00 Dollars because of that. That was back in the 70's. Then, I was dusting one day, and I dropped part of it on the floor and broke it. I was so upset, because of the historical value of "Occupied Japan", and that my Grandmother had given them to me. I have about 400 sets. I also have salt cellars that were made before the shakers were invented. I love the history behind items. I also have an antique knitting machine. Hugs, Jan L.