However, the International Society of Antique Scale Collectors offers a wealth of information for both aspiring and serious collectors. The only journal devoted to scales, Equilibrium , is published by the Society and contains enlightening articles written from a historical, scientific and collector's perspective. Members may access the Society's library and a limited research service to assist in collecting efforts. Lectures, field trips, social events, and a silent auction fill the weekend convention. It is a rare event when a member walks away empty handed from the annual event.
Authentic scales can be pricey.
He encourages collectors to educate themselves in order to avoid the flood of reproductions on the antiques market. This curvy pendulum scale, produced by the Detroit Automatic Scale Company, was probably used in a general store to weigh fruits and vegetables. Values of old scales vary depending upon their rarity, beauty and novelty. Two price guides covering specialized scales have been published by Society members. The best assurance of fair pricing develops with diligent study of the market and the type of scales that interest you.