Butcher’s Scale

Q: I have a hanging scale marked “Patented Aug. 19, 1884, makers of balance and scales of every description, John Chatillon & Sons, New York.” It also says “Butcher’s scale” and has numbers from zero to nine on the dial. Can you give me any information about this?

A: John Chatillon & Sons was founded in New York City in 1835. The company made spring balances for butchers. By 1883 it was making balances, scales, cutlery and other goods. The Chatillon brand is now owned by Ametek, Inc., based in Berwyn, Pa. It still makes springs and scales, as well as other force-measuring instruments for industry. Value of your scale is about $50 to $75.