A Fascinating Snapshot of British Engineering History
Moore & Wright is one of the most recognised names in precision measuring equipment, with a history that stretches back more than a century. Founded in Sheffield, the company became well known throughout engineering workshops for producing verniers, micrometers, engineers' squares, rules and other measurement tools.
Recently, we came across a Moore & Wright catalogue dating from 1939. While the products and prices reflect a very different era, many of the fundamental tools remain familiar to engineers today.
This catalogue provides an interesting glimpse into the tools available to engineers and machinists immediately before the outbreak of the Second World War.
Engineering Measurement in 1939
In 1939, precision measurement was entirely mechanical.
Engineers relied on:
- Vernier calipers
- External micrometers
- Internal measuring tools
- Engineers' squares
- Surface inspection equipment
- Spring calipers and dividers
Digital displays, electronic indicators and wireless data transfer were still decades away.
Despite this, the principles of accurate measurement remain unchanged. Many of the tools shown in the catalogue would still be instantly recognisable in a modern machine shop.
Sheffield's Manufacturing Heritage
Moore & Wright was founded in Sheffield, a city world-renowned for precision manufacturing and steel production.
The catalogue highlights the company's focus on:
- Accuracy
- Robust construction
- Workshop durability
- Precision engineering
These qualities helped establish Moore & Wright as a trusted supplier of measuring tools throughout the UK and beyond.
Comparing Then and Now
One of the most interesting aspects of the catalogue is how little some products have changed.
Vernier Calipers
The traditional vernier caliper remains one of the most widely used measuring tools in engineering.
While modern versions may feature digital displays for faster reading, the underlying measuring principle is largely unchanged from the tools shown in the 1939 catalogue.
Micrometers
Mechanical micrometers remain an essential workshop measurement tool today.
Modern improvements have focused on:
- Better materials
- Improved manufacturing tolerances
- Digital readouts
- Increased durability
But the basic operating method would be instantly familiar to an engineer from 1939.
Engineers' Squares and Rules
Many engineers still use the same style of squares and rules shown in historical catalogues.
These simple but effective tools continue to play an important role in inspection and marking out work.
Popular Moore & Wright Products Today
Moore & Wright continues to offer a wide range of measurement products, including:
- Digital calipers
- Vernier calipers
- Micrometers
- Engineers' squares
- Height gauges
- Indicators
- Bore gauges
- Precision measuring accessories
Browse our current Moore & Wright range to see how the product line has evolved while maintaining its engineering heritage.
Do You Have an Old Moore & Wright Catalogue?
We always enjoy seeing historic engineering catalogues, tools and workshop photographs.
If you have an old Moore & Wright catalogue or vintage measuring equipment, we'd love to hear about it.
Engineering history provides a fascinating insight into how today's precision measurement tools evolved and helps preserve the heritage of British manufacturing.
