What might this contraption be?
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Looks like a scales for fish or small animals from hunting.
http://www.steppeshillfarmantiques.com/silver-and-porcelain/d/george-v-silver-map-measuring-instrument-asprey/98908/218730
looked interesting so I did a little digging. There is one listed on ebay.
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Rare-Antique-Gebr-Wichmann-Rolling-Measuring-Device-German-Instrument-Pocket-Sz-/181599534859
listing: RECENT ACQUISITIONSThis lot is for the exact pictured item. A very rare antique Gebr. Wichmann rolling, German measuring device. Have not been able to find another from any collection or items for sale online.Although it is missing the front glass, it works perfectly. No rust found. Roll it to the right, the blue hand moves backward, move it to the left, the hand moves to the right.Devise measures 2 3/4 inches x 1 1/4 inches. Small enough to fit in ones pocket.WICHMANN (Gebr. Wichmann m.b.H. Berlin)
I searched a little deeper and found that it is a European Map Measure. Check out www.gilai.com under heading Scientific Instruments- Navigational. It is used on maps and to convert kilometers to miles, etc. I googled antique measurement tools and a picture popped up.
It is used to measure distance on maps. I used to have a U.S. version. You roll it between points on a map and it will show distance in miles. Pretty accurate. My nephew stole mine and pawned it for drugs. Haven`t seen another anywhere.
looks like a dial off of freon charging gauges
Hang on to all that stuff until you can get it all checked out!
I appreciate your feedback. My first hurdle to figuring out for myself is actually cataloging the items - im waiting for warmer weather and better lighting in the old barn to allow for decent photos. I’ll definitely check my local library!
I would`t know what something like this is worth. I found mine inside an old military desk that I bought on auction. As most maps today have distances between points already printed on them, I doubt if anyone uses these instruments anymore. I would keep it as a good conversation piece.
I have one also given to me years ago by a friend who who knows that I love interesting and odd collectables. I agree with Nopuedes. It is fun when friends are over to try to guess what these sorts of items are.