Vintage Rabone Rope Gauge No. 3863 c. 1938-1953 | 4-Inch Boxwood & Brass Caliper Rule

For the man of measure … a vintage Rabone No. 3863 4-inch rope gauge in boxwood and brass, made in England and dating to around 1938–1953.  This compact 4-inch tool with a sliding brass jaw was designed to measure rope, cord, cable, and similar stock against inch and centimeter scales.  Ours is in exceptional condition, with bright brass and crisp graduations, and would make a distinctive addition to a gentleman’s desk or workshop shelf.

Rope gauges like these were used by riggers, chandlers, shipyard workers, and suppliers who needed to identify rope or cable by diameter. The sliding jaw made sizing quick and repeatable, especially when handling cordage that needed to match a specific size for marine or industrial use.  Rabone was Britain’s leading rule and measuring-tool maker, and the No. 3863 fits neatly into the company’s long catalog of boxwood and brass rules, calipers, and specialist trade measures.

Dimensions: 4-5/16” (closed) x 1-1/6” x 5/32” 
Weight: 1.1 oz.

Condition Notes: Excellent vintage condition overall. Boxwood body shows only minor surface wear consistent with age and use, with clear, legible inch and centimeter graduations on both faces. Brass fittings are bright and clean with minimal oxidation. Sliding brass jaw opens and closes stiffly but easily, and holds position when set for measurement. Marked “MADE IN ENGLAND,” “No. 3863,” “LONDON,” “RABONE,” and “METRE.” Rule has been lightly cleaned and polished. Other items in photos not included.

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 — 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.

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