1950s Electrical Slide Rule in Original Box by Unique Slide Rule Company | British-Made Vintage Engineering Tool

For the engineer … a specialist electrical slide rule, made in England in the 1950s by the Unique Slide Rule Company of Brighton. This precision instrument is housed in its original two-piece case, remains in excellent condition, and features a sturdy wood body, celluloid-laminated scales, and a clear acrylic cursor. The front side displays a full suite of logarithmic and electrical scales, while the reverse offers a detailed reference table of resistivity and temperature coefficients.  A fine example of mid-century technical craftsmanship, it would make a “unique” gift for an engineer, technical historian, or collector of vintage instruments.

Designed for use by electrical engineers, technicians, and advanced students, these types of slide rules were essential field and classroom tools before the age of calculators.  They enabled accurate calculations of Ohm’s Law, temperature-corrected resistance, and power values across a range of conductive materials.

The Unique Slide Rule Company was founded in 1920 by Burns Snodgrass MBE, a mechanical engineering lecturer at Brighton Technical College. Known for their affordability and wide range of niche, specialty models, Unique slide rules were produced in small batches by the family firm up until the 1970s. Today, they’re increasingly valued by collectors for their uncommon scale combinations and distinctively craftsman-like construction.

Dimensions: (Rule) 11-3/4” x 1-7/16” x 3/8”; (Box, Closed) 12-3/8” x 2” x 3/4"
Weight: (Combined) 4.6 oz.

Condition notes: Slide rule in excellent condition overall with minimal signs of wear, and no visible stains, dents, or damage to the wood body or laminated surfaces. All scale markings are clear and legible, and both the central slide and acrylic cursor move smoothly and function as intended. Original two-piece cardboard case shows moderate external wear with surface flaking and edge rubbing, and includes several handwritten pencil notations from the original owner on the interior sleeve. Other items in photos not included.

All items are hand-wrapped and packed with care for secure delivery. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 (not including taxes) 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.