1950s Dual-Sided German Opisometer with Leather Case | Vintage Map Measurer, Travel Gift

For the explorer …  a vintage dual-sided opisometer or map measurer, dating from the 1950s and made in Germany, likely by Thoma. Housed in its original brown leather case, the chrome-plated instrument features one dial calibrated in inches to miles and centimeters to kilometers, and the reverse showing statute miles, kilometers, and nautical miles. Most unusually, it also retains a scale for versts, the obsolete Russian unit of distance abolished by the Soviet Union in the 1920s. In excellent condition and still completely functional, it would make a memorable gift for the traveler and a distinctive display piece on a gentleman’s desk or side table.

Opisometers, also known as curvimeters, were used to measure curved lines and route distances on printed maps. The small wheel is rolled along the line being measured, such as a road, river, or coastline, and the pointer translates that movement into distance using the appropriate scale on the dial. Instruments like this were used by motorists, hikers, cyclists, scouts, military trainees, and others planning routes before digital maps and GPS.

Dimensions (Case): 2-7/8” x 2” x 1/16” 
Dimensions (Opisometer): 2-7/8” x 1-5/16” x 1/4"
Weight (Combined): 1.2 ounces

Condition notes: Excellent vintage condition overall, with only very light surface wear to chrome-plated body, which otherwise remains clean and bright. Glass covers on both sides show minimal wear, with all dials clear, legible, and easy to read. One side is marked “Inches to Miles or Verstes,” “Centimetres to Kilometres,” and “Germany.” Reverse is calibrated for “Statute Miles,” “Kilometres,” and “Nautical Miles”  and marked “1 inch to 1 miles (sic).”  Tracking wheel and dials rotate as intended, and instrument appears fully functional, though has not been tested for accuracy. Original leather case remains in very good condition, with creasing to one side and light wear consistent with age and use. Other items in photos not included.

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