This book focuses on the measuring tools used by tradesmen and professionals in their everyday work, on the trades in which specific tools were used and how these tools were made and by whom. The intention is that the information contained here will be of use to collectors and researchers by explaining how the measuring devices were used and by placing them in a trade and social context. No book of this size could hope to describe in detail every type of measuring device so it is those measuring items likely to be found and collected today that have been included. Some are included because they are regularly encountered; others because they reflect important historical trends or developments. Still others pose intriguing intellectual challenges. Finally, many are simply attractive objects. It is a truism that to measure accurately the measure itself must be finely made and in this can lie great appeal. Special features include illustrated appendixes, a checklist of rule makers and dealers, a full index, and separate index of names.