1930s Rabone 100-foot Tape Measure in Leather Case, No. 400 | Vintage English Surveying Tool

For the builder … a superb 100-foot vintage measuring tape, Model No. 400 by John Rabone & Sons of Birmingham, dating to the 1930s.  Housed in its original stitched leather case with brass fittings and folding winding handle, the 1/2-inch woven linen tape, reinforced with metal threads, is graduated in feet and inches on one side and surveying links on the other.  Both case and tape are in exceptional condition, with remarkably little wear for their age.  This is a particularly handsome example of its type and would make an inspired gift for the builder, craftsman, or collector of fine English tools.

John Rabone established his rule-making business in Birmingham in 1784, and the firm later became John Rabone & Sons as it expanded into measuring tapes, rules, levels, and other precision measuring tools. By the early 20th century, Rabone was one of Britain’s leading manufacturers of measuring equipment, supplying professional trades, surveyors, engineers, and government customers.  The company continued independently until 1963, when it merged with James Chesterman & Co. of Sheffield to form Rabone Chesterman.

Rabone’s 1938 catalog identifies the No. 400 as its “Best Metallic Tape,” offered in 33-, 50-, 66- and 100-foot lengths (see photo).  The 100-foot version sat at the very top end of Rabone’s line of wind-up models, priced substantially above many of the company’s less expensive linen and metallic tapes.  This would have been a proper commercial tool, of a length, construction, and design intended for professional measuring and surveying work.

Dimensions: 6” Diameter x 1-1/8”
Weight: 1 lb. 4.6 oz

Condition notes: Excellent vintage condition overall. Leather case is clean, structurally sound, and exceptionally well preserved, with tight stitching and only minor scratches, small dents, and light surface marks consistent with age and careful use. Case is impressed “JOHN RABONE & SONS BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND,” while folding brass handle is marked “100 FT” and “No 400.” Woven linen tape remains clean and strongly printed throughout visible sections, with feet and inches on one side and surveying links on reverse. Underside of leather end tab is stamped “RABONE MADE IN ENGLAND.” Brass fittings show only light tarnish and faint surface wear. Tape winds smoothly; it has purposely not been unwound to full length to avoid unnecessary stress on mechanism. See photos for more detail and contact shop with any questions prior to purchase. Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped, gift-boxed, and packed with care. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.