Chesterman 50-Foot Steel Tape Measure in Leather Case (1930s–40s) | Pristine Vintage Measuring Tool

For the craftsman … a remarkably preserved 50-foot steel tape measure by James Chesterman & Co. of Sheffield, dating to the 1930s or 1940s.  Housed in the original stitched leather case with polished brass fittings and a winding handle, it was made for professional use, yet has somehow survived in collector-grade condition rarely seen in tools of this era.  An extraordinary example of its type and a special gift for the craftsman, builder, or anyone who appreciates old tools.

By the early 20th century, cloth tape measures—long favored for tailoring and light-duty use—were increasingly supplanted by narrow, ribbon-like steel tapes, prized for their rigidity and durability in the field.  Our example is 1/4-inch wide, marked in feet and inches on one side and blank on the reverse, a design that allowed tradesmen to mark measurements in chalk or align the tape visually without interference from back-side graduations.

James Chesterman founded his namesake firm in 1821 and made his name in 1829 with the patent of a spring-loaded steel measuring tape.  His innovation helped set the standard for industrial measuring tools in Britain and abroad. The embossed “JC” mark on our example dates it to the first half of the century, well before the 1963 merger that formed Rabone Chesterman.

Dimensions: 3” x 3” x 5/16”
Weight: 6.7 oz

Condition notes: Excellent vintage condition overall. Leather case is clean and structurally sound, with crisp embossed branding, tight stitching, and only minor surface wear from age. Cover reads “CHESTERMAN SHEFFIELD ENGLAND” along with the company’s “JC” mark.  Brass handle and other fittings show only slight tarnish and faint surface marks, consistent with careful storage and minimal use. Tape winds smoothly; it has purposely not been unwound to full length to avoid stressing the mechanism. Markings in feet and inches remain sharp and legible throughout visible sections. See photos for further detail and contact the 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.