Pièce de collection scientifique rare : Un instrument de métrologie de haute précision provenant de la prestigieuse maison Théodore Perrin à Paris, fabricant réputé d'instruments pour les services des Poids et Mesures à la fin du XIXe siècle.
L'Instrument : Règle de précision de section triangulaire/trapézoïdale. Gravée du millésime 1880 surmonté d'une étoile.
Longueur : 15 cm.
L'Écrin : Coffret d'origine en bois massif (acajou), pivotant, portant une plaque en laiton gravée "Th. PERRIN". L'intérieur est gravé du millésime 1887.
Longueur du coffret : 23 cm.
Up for auction is a magnificent example of 19th-century French metrology. This high-precision linear standard, used for official calibration, was manufactured by the renowned Théodore Perrin in Paris, official supplier to the Service des Poids et Mesures (Weights and Measures Department).
Key Features:
The Instrument (Gauge): A heavy, L-shaped precision standard made of dark, stabilized alloy. It features a specific stepped profile at the ends for official measuring contacts.
Hallmarks: Prominently engraved on the face is a star above the clear vintage date: 1880.
Dimensions: Gauge Length: 15 cm / approx. 5.9 inches.
The Original Case: The primary case is a stunning example of complex cabinetry. Crafted from dark, rich wood (likely mahogany), it features a unique pivoting lid on a brass axis.
External Label: A brass plaque is affixed to the lid, clearly script-engraved: "Th. Perrin".
Internal Date: The inner groove of the case, perfectly shaped to hold the gauge, is marked with the clear year: 1887.
Dimensions: Case Length: 23 cm / approx. 9.1 inches.
Provenance & Historical Importance: Théodore Perrin was a central figure in precision instrument making in Paris during the Third Republic, a time of intense standardization. To find a 15 cm standard explicitly dated 1880, matched with its signed case (labeled 1887), is exceptional. This set was likely used as a primary or secondary standard for a government bureau or a high-end calibration workshop.
Condition Report:
Instrument (Gauge): The metal is in beautiful antique condition. It has a rich, uniform dark patina. All engravings (1880 and the star) are deep and legible. The measurement surfaces are clean and free of significant pitting.
Case: The wood is sound with a deep, original polished finish. There are minor dings and signs of use consistent with age, which add character. The brass plaque is crisp. The crucial pivoting mechanism is smooth and functions perfectly.
Cette pièce n'est pas seulement un outil, c'est un témoin de l'unification des standards de mesure sous la IIIe République. Un investissement pour tout cabinet de curiosités ou collection scientifique sérieuse."
"This is not just a tool; it is a historical witness to the standardization of measurements in 19th-century France. A museum-grade investment for any serious scientific collection."
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