Item Report
Watling Victorian Nickel-Plated Cast Iron Floor Scale
By: The Watling Scale Co., Chicago, Illinois
Style: Victorian Industrial
Origin: United States
Materials: Nickel-plated metal, cast iron, enamel-painted dial
Age: Circa 1902-1915
Condition: Good (shows oxidation and wear to metal surfaces, dial appears largely intact, untested for function)
Value: $400 - $900 (auction value, depending on condition and working status)
Maker's Marks / Writing: THE WATLING SCALE CO., CHICAGO, U.S.A.; U.S. PAT. NO. 696589, DATE APRIL 1, 1902; other patents listed.
Date: 2025-06-24 09:25:22.774942
Description:
A large, ornate floor scale manufactured by The Watling Scale Co., Chicago, U.S.A. This piece features an elaborately decorated nickel-plated bezel and a cast iron body. The dial is prominently marked with 'The Watling Scale' and patent dates of 1902 and 1903, suggesting it is an early 20th-century model. Such machines were commonly found in pharmacies, train stations, and public spaces from the late Victorian through Edwardian periods. The quality of the nickel work and the detailed flourishes are characteristic of the era. Large mechanical scales of this type are now collectible as both industrial and decorative objects.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
A substantial and decorative example of an early 20th-century American public weighing machine, prized today for its industrial style and period craftsmanship. Its value is enhanced if in working order and with original nickel-plating. Some cosmetic wear and surface oxidation are evident, but overall presents well for display.
Individual Images:
- Only one image is provided. The visible dial and nickel-plated bezel are in fair decorative condition with age-appropriate patina and surface rust visible on the iron base. No visible maker's tag loss. Condition of mechanism and interior unverified.
Provenance:
No provenance documentation provided.
Condition:
Good (shows oxidation and wear to metal surfaces, dial appears largely intact, untested for function)
Identification Score: 97%
The maker's name and patent dates are clearly legible; the form, materials, and ornamentation firmly date the piece to the early 1900s and leave little doubt as to its identity. Minor possibility exists for model variation.
Authenticity Score: 90%
The detailed casting and authentic period wear strongly support originality. Surface oxidation and patina are consistent with age. No obvious signs of modern reproduction or replacement parts, though internal mechanism status is unknown.
Image Memory Note
Tall, ornate mechanical floor scale by Watling; patent dates and clear marker; visible surface rust but dial is well preserved.
Keywords
Watling Scale, Victorian industrial, cast iron, nickel-plated, public weighing machine, USA, Chicago, early 20th century, collectible scale
Comparables (Similar Items)
No archived comparables matched this report yet.
Share: