[jj777746]

Hi All, approximately 60 years,my dear Grandfather gave me a tiny spirit level which I have kept in my tool collection but never found much use for.So I was looking for a spanner the other day when there it was, this little level turned up. I thought I would clean it & see who its maker was.Not a good idea,cleaning something so old,but it was really hard to read the markings so out with the magnifying glass & in somewhat vague print is, J.RABONE & SONS, MAKERS,BIRMINGHAM. On the other end was Patent No.22017. This tiny level is only 8 inches long & has 1 inches,1/2,1/4 &1/8s on one side & 1/16ths etc on the other,brass caps on both ends & the main mid level is housed in brass. The plum level on one end is just set in the wood in a round hole.
Has anybody seen a similar level, & can please tell me its use? Many thanks.James.jj777746

 

[Rogerdodge]

Hello James,

The firm of Rabone and Chesterman are well known today as makers of Squares , Mitre Gauges and , as you say Spirit levels. I have a fine Mitre Gauge of their's made of Rosewood , Brass and Steel. Nice find.

 

[DaninVan]

It may have been intended as an Engineer's Level(?)...
Here's a modern one, in metric:
https://www.amazon.com/Engineers-Spirit-Level-0-02mm-Graduations/dp/B011ONT6HE

 

[TenGees]

I have no info for you James but I would like to see pics of it... sounds interesting. I have a small level that comes in handy for hanging pictures or shelves etc.

 

[sunnybob]

google search brought up this picture
https://www.soldusa.com/Listing/Det...o-22017-Spirit-Level-Rule-10-Wood-Brass-Birmi

 

[Barry747]

I can't shed any light on the one you have but I have a number of small spirit levels and one digital one. I use the smaller levels when a larger one won't fit the area that I'm trying to level. I recently used an 8" plastic torpedo level (I also have a 6" one) to hang a small corner shelf on the wall and, as Paul mentioned, small levels are useful in hanging pictures.

 

[jj777746]

Thanks for providing the information & advise. I may be able to post a photo or two in the future. Bob (@ sunnybob) shows a link which has an almost exact likeness of my level,the only difference is his is 2" longer than mine. Thank you Bob & everyone who offered information. I also have more old tools in my collection but my 3 foot hinged Rabone rule was stolen years ago darn it. James.jj777746