Why Would Anyone Use One Today?

Great question. Let me give you a few reasons.

1. No batteries required. Digital scales need batteries (which die at the worst possible moment). A mechanical scale works forever.

2. They’re charming. A brass and cast iron scale on your desk is a conversation starter. It’s a piece of history. It’s beautiful.

3. They’re accurate enough. For letters and small packages, a vintage scale is perfectly adequate. You don’t need digital precision for a thank-you note.

4. They’re cheap (used). You can find vintage postal scales at antique shops for $10-30. A good digital scale costs about the same.

5. They’re satisfying to use. There’s something tactile and meditative about sliding the weight, watching the arm balance, and knowing exactly how many stamps to apply.

How to Use a Vintage Postal Scale (If You Find One)

If you’re lucky enough to own one, here’s how to use it.

Step 1: Place the scale on a flat, level surface.

Step 2: Make sure the scale is calibrated. With nothing on the platform, the arm should be horizontal (or the pointer should align with zero). Some scales have a small screw or weight for calibration.

Step 3: Place your envelope or small package on the platform.

Step 4: Slide the small weight along the calibrated arm until the scale balances (arm horizontal, pointer at zero).

Step 5: Read the weight where the weight sits on the arm. Most scales measure in ounces or grams.

Step 6: Apply the correct postage (check current rates online or at the post office).

How to Identify a Vintage Postal Scale

If you’re at an antique shop and see a strange little contraption, here’s how to tell if it’s a postal scale.

Look for:

• A weighted base (cast iron is common)

• A vertical post or pillar

• A pivoting horizontal arm

• A small platform (for the envelope)

• A sliding weight on the arm

• Calibration marks (ounces, grams, or both)

• Brand names: Pelouze, Hanson, Chatillon, Detecto

Common confusion points:

• Not a kitchen scale. Kitchen scales have bowls or platforms for ingredients. Postal scales have small, flat platforms for envelopes.

• Not a balance scale. Balance scales have two platforms and are used for comparing weights (like a balance beam). Postal scales have one platform.

• Not a jeweler’s scale. Jeweler’s scales are tiny and extremely precise (for gems). Postal scales are larger.

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