Vintage Marples Rosewood & Brass Mortise Gauge | Early 1900s Woodworking Tool

For the man of precision … a vintage English mortise gauge crafted from rich rosewood with brass inlays, by William Marples & Sons of Sheffield.  Dating from the early 1900s, this handsome joiner’s tool measures 6-1/4" along the beam and features dual marking pins for scribing mortises. Though one original thumbscrew has been replaced with a roundhead screw — a typical workshop repair — this century-old gauge remains sturdy, beautiful, and ready for display on a gentleman’s desk or side table.

Mortise gauges have long been essential in woodworking for laying out precise joinery, particularly mortise and tenon joints. This example resembles designs in Marples catalogs from as early as 1897 (Model 653), and 1909 (Model 2120).  The curved “MARPLES SHEFFIELD ENGLAND” stamp on the stock (head) dates this piece to between 1910 and 1935.

William Marples & Sons were one of Sheffield’s most esteemed toolmakers, with roots stretching back to the early 1830s when William Marples Jr. founded the firm in Broomhall Street. Over the decades they grew into Sheffield’s most prolific maker of joinery tools, specializing in gauges, chisels, braces, and planes.  Now part of the Irwin tools brand, Marples tools remain prized today for their consistent quality and craftsmanship.

Dimensions: (Beam) 6-1/4” x 5/8” x 5/8”, (Head) 2-1/8” x 2-1/4” x 1-1/16”
Weight: 6.8 oz.

Condition notes: Very good antique condition overall. Rosewood beam and stock display warm patina, general surface wear, light scratches, and small marks consistent with age and use. Brass inlays and fittings show mild tarnish appropriate to age, all securely set and structurally sound. Tool has been cleaned and lightly polished, with care taken to preserve its original character. Maker’s stamp reading “MARPLES, SHEFFIELD ENGLAND” is heavily rubbed but remains legible (see photo). Original thumbscrew has been replaced with a plain screw, a typical workshop repair. Not tested for precision; recommended for decorative or display use only. See photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed.  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.  We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.