Antique two-pan scale with set of weights

This antique two-pan scale preserves the characteristic design of the mechanical scales traditionally used in shops, pantries, and kitchens during the first decades of the 20th century.

It features a cast iron structure combined with elements in gilded metal pans and the set of cylindrical weights that accompanies the piece.

Based on its typology, it can be dated approximately to the first decades of the 20th century, possibly around 1910-1920. This dating should be considered indicative, provided there is no brand, documentation, or manufacturer reference to confirm it.

What was this scale used for?

Its purpose was to weigh food, merchandise, and other products using a simple weight comparison system.

The product to be weighed was placed on one of the pans. On the opposite side, weights of known values were added until the central arm was balanced.

This system allowed weight to be determined without electrical or digital mechanisms and was common for decades in grocery stores, markets, kitchens, and small shops.

Two-pan mechanical system

The scale features two circular pans facing each other, attached to the ends of an oscillating arm.

In the center is the equilibrium indicator, responsible for showing when both sides reach a balanced position.

The rectangular base provides stability to the whole and features molded decoration consistent with the functional and ornamental character of these types of antique instruments.

The combination of the gold finish with the dark parts of the mechanism creates the contrast common in many vintage commercial scales.

Set of five weights included

The scale retains a set of five cylindrical weights, originally intended to make different combinations during weighing.

The set consists of:

• 1 weight of 50 grams.
• 1 weight of 100 grams.
• 2 weights of 200 grams.
• 1 weight of 500 grams.

The set totals 1,050 grams in nominal weights.

The pieces show different tones and surface marks related to their age and use.

A piece linked to traditional commerce

Before the arrival of electronic scales, this type of scale was part of the everyday furniture of numerous establishments.

Flour, legumes, sugar, spices, and other products sold by weight could be calculated using this system.

It currently retains interest as an object related to the history of trade and domestic life, but it also works very well as a decorative piece.

Decoration for kitchens, shops, and collections

Due to its design, it can be incorporated into different spaces:

• Traditional-style kitchens.
• Shops and businesses.
• Restaurants and rural houses.
• Wine cellars and pantries.
• Vintage and industrial decor.
• Collections of measuring instruments.
• Shop windows related to old trades and businesses.

The pans and weights also allow for different compositions for display.

Technical characteristics

• Product: antique scale.
  
• Type: two-pan mechanical scale.
  
• Main structure: cast iron.
  
• Finish: combination with dark structure.
  
• Number of pans: two.
  
• Pans: gilded metal.
  
• System: mechanical balance through weight comparison.
  
• Number of weights included: five.
  
• Weights: 50g, 100g, 200g, 200g, and 500g.
  
• Combined nominal weight of the weights: 1,050g.
  
• Estimated era: first decades of the 20th century.
  
• Indicative dating: circa 1910-1920.
  
• Original function: weighing food and merchandise.
  
• Recommended current use: collection, exhibition, and decoration.
  
• Recommended rooms: kitchen, shop, restaurant, wine cellar, or vintage-style space.
  
• Visible condition: retains signs and marks related to use and age.
  
• Functionality: should not be considered an instrument calibrated for current precision weighing unless checked beforehand.
• Dimensions: 33.5 x 13.5 x H17 cm.

A scale from the old grocery stores

This type of instrument reminds us of a way of shopping very different from today's: bulk goods, weights placed one by one, and an arm that had to be perfectly balanced before calculating the quantity.

The preservation of its two pans and a set of five weights makes it easier to understand how it works and visually completes the set.

Frequently asked questions

What type of scale is it?

It is an antique two-pan mechanical scale that works by comparing the product with a series of weights of known values.

Does it include the weights?

Yes. It includes five cylindrical weights.

What weights does it include?

The set consists of a 50g weight, a 100g weight, two 200g weights, and a 500g weight.

How much do all the weights add up to?

The nominal values of the five weights add up to 1,050 grams.

What were these scales used for?

They were used to weigh food and merchandise in kitchens, markets, grocery stores, and other establishments.

What era is it from?

Based on its typology, it could correspond to the first decades of the 20th century, approximately between 1910 and 1920.

Can it still be used for weighing today?

The mechanism may still move, but an antique scale serves a decorative function.

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