Item Report
Mid-20th Century Kodak Studio Scale with Original Box
By: Eastman Kodak Company
Style: Mid-20th Century Industrial/Scientific Equipment
Origin: United States
Materials: Metal (likely aluminum or nickel-plated steel), wood, paper/cardboard (for original box and paperwork)
Age: Circa 1940s-1950s
Condition: Very Good (minor wear to box and some metal surfaces, appears unused or lightly used, complete with all paperwork and weights)
Value: $60 - $120 (auction estimate, with original box, paperwork, and all weights present)
Maker's Marks / Writing: Stamped metal plate on the scale reads 'Kodak Studio Scale'; box and instruction cards clearly marked 'Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester, N.Y., U.S.A.'
Date: 2025-06-22 09:29:43.838691
Description:
A vintage photographic balance scale manufactured by Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester, NY, USA, likely from the mid-20th century. The set includes the original yellow Kodak box, an all-metal double-pan balance scale mounted on a wooden base, multiple standardized weights (measured in grains), and accompanying paperwork including usage instructions and conversion tables. These scales were used in photographic studios, especially for measuring chemicals with precision during the film development process.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is a well-preserved example of a Kodak Studio Scale, complete with original packaging and paperwork. Collectors value these for both their connection to the history of photography and their precise engineering. The inclusion of all weights, box, and paperwork elevates this to a complete set, though some age wear is visible. A word about fakes: While less common in utilitarian scientific equipment like this, condition, completeness, and provenance are crucial—missing parts, modern replacement weights, or reproduction packaging would lessen desirability and value.
Individual Images:
- Box shows some fading
- stains
- and typical wear for its age. The scale mechanism and pans are quite clean
- showing only light tarnish and no obvious dents or damage. All original standardized weights are present and match markings on the scale. Instruction cards are slightly yellowed but legible. Overall completeness significantly enhances collector value.
Provenance:
No provenance documented aside from original Kodak box and papers present in image.
Condition:
Very Good (minor wear to box and some metal surfaces, appears unused or lightly used, complete with all paperwork and weights)
Identification Score: 98%
The clear Kodak branding, box, original weights, and manufacturer’s documentation make identification highly certain as a Kodak Studio Scale from the mid-20th century. The only minor uncertainty is the precise year of manufacture without a date code.
Authenticity Score: 95%
The aging of the box, patina on the metal, period-appropriate paper, and matching box/scale/weights point strongly to originality. There are no signs of modern repro or tampering. Only minor deductions for possibility of replaced small weights or internal repairs, though these are not apparent.
Image Memory Note
Kodak Studio Scale set with original yellow box, wooden base, two pans, all standardized weights, and original documentation. Some age-staining to box, otherwise very well preserved.
Keywords
Kodak, Studio Scale, photographic equipment, vintage scale, balance, 20th century, Eastman Kodak, photography collectible, United States
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