Up for sale is a very interesting carpenter's wide faced two foot boxwood folding rule with drafting scales and some unique design characteristics. Likely attributed to Isaac Albutt/Allbutt circa 1850 Wolverhampton, England.

- Wide face (1 3/8" width)

- Only marked "I. Albutt maker" on one exterior face

- Mixed material midplate hinges. Four brass plates on the main hinge side with three steel plates on the opposite.

- Plates accompanied by matching brass/steel pins

- Steel tipped ends.

- Thick box style main hinge.

- Face alignment pins protrude from holes drilled into the bottom edge of the main hinge, rather than holes situated in the wood below the hinge.

- Graduations: 8ths of an inch both sides. One inch in 12ths. Drafting scales marked 1.2, 1.4, and 3.4 (probably 1/2", 1/4", and 3/4" to 1 foot drafting scales)

- Fancy numerals. Similar stylistically to Aston & other Birmingham rulemakers.

- Main hinge has one long steel mid plate only visible along the bottom edge.

- Design characteristics consistent with mid-19th century English rulemaking.

Based on our research into the design, materials used, and English historical and genealogical records, this rule can likely be attributed to Issac Allbutt of Wolverhampton, England. Issac's profession was listed as "rule-maker" in the Wolverhampton Parish records in 1851 and 1857. Parish and marriage records list the name as both Albutt and Allbutt over the years. Theorized to have been a small manufacturer serving the local construction community. It is possibly a unique surviving example of a nearly unknown English rule-maker. Any additional info from the rule-buffs out there would be greatly appreciated.

Condition: Very good. All hinges are properly tight. Steel hardware has some slight deterioration from rust. One of the six steel middle plates broke close to the hinge itself, but the plate is still embedded in the rule (see photos 5, 21, and 22). The boxwood around the mixed metal mid plates have some minor staining. The contact of dissimilar metals appears to have created some of that tarnish (see photos 5, 14, and 23). Besides those spots, the boxwood looks great. All graduations are easily read. Nearly no bowing. The rule sits flat closed and when opened. Both face pins are still present. Has holes for an edge alignment pin, but pin is gone.

The photos are a critical part of the item description. Please review them carefully. Feel free to message me with any questions. Thanks!

I will always combine shipping for multiple items purchased at the same time whenever possible. Please pay for all items as you usually would. I'll then combine the shipment and send you a refund for the savings.