antique sterling 12" ruler telescoping mechanical pencil for chatelaine 1897 patent in very fine condition. marked sterling patent 1-19-1897 & faintly stamped maker marking. pull to open or close. hand engraved scale markings which when pulled completely out the 4 sections make a 12" long ruler. former owner name crudely scratched on reverse side 5/16" square, 4 1/4" long closed, 12 5/8" long opened including tip, 1.5 mm lead Research shows George Watts & James B Smith were granted patent # 575671 & approved on 1/19/1897. This pencil was produced in several reincarnations by Edward Todd or Otis in the 20th century under different patents. This is the earliest Watts & Smith version of the telescoping sterling foot rule pencil. 32 gram total poolbx6 sterling 12" Ruler Telescoping Mechanical Pencil For Chatelaine 1897 Patent
