Antique Rondony Chondrometer. Balance. Complete. France, XIX Century

Antique instrument to weigh and calibrate grain made by Rondony, complete and in very good condition. This fascinating device is an instrument for scientific use and was made in France in the 19th century. It is greatly preserved and comes in its original storing case, that acts as a base to assemble the component parts on top. The instrument is composed of a series of silvery-metal pieces, all in good condition and showing only slight traces of rust and wear at the scales beam. Once assembled, the instrument is composed of two parts: a delicate Roman scale with a hook at the left end of the beam, and a metal pillar which supports a funnel. The beam of the Roman scale has a hook at its left end and there is a cylindrical silvery-metal bucket hanging from it. The bucket is composed of two halves that rotate. The beam stands on a metal base with a pillar at each end; the base fits in two holes drilled in the storing cases top. The silvery metal plate of the vase bears an engraved inscription: Maison fondeé en 1770 - Rondony a Marseille Pèse Blés Déposé. To the right, the cases top has another hole to fit the metal pillar that supports the funnel. This piece has a lid at the bottom with a screw that makes it possible to open and close it. The storing case is a rectangular wooden box with a gorgeous black lacquered finish. The lacquer has been retouched at some point and it's in excellent condition and looks shiny and even. At the front of the case we can see a golden-metal plate with the engraved inscription MAISON RONDONY DE DUPONT MARSEILLE. Inside the box is covered with red fabric and has compartments to store the instruments component parts. The fabric lining is well preserved and shows no stains or torn parts. This antique instrument to weigh and calibrate grain made by Rondony is a rare and attractive piece, perfect to shine in a bookcase, study or showcase. Measurements: Width: 20.2 in / 50.5 cm. Depth: 10.4 in / 26 cm.