Chatillon Milk Scale Value Guide

This antique Chatillon hanging milk scale represents a vital era of American agricultural history, manufactured by the renowned John Chatillon & Sons of New York. These 20-pound capacity scales were essential for dairy farmers to ensure fair trade and precision measurement before the digital age.

What Is Chatillon Milk Scale Worth?

The typical price range for Chatillon Milk Scale is $150 - $165 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the enamel dial, as chips or significant fading can reduce the value below the $150 mark.
• Mechanical functionality of the internal spring mechanism and the accuracy of the weight needle.
• Presence of original hardware, including the top hanging ring and the bottom milk pail hook.
• Overall patina of the metal housing, with original finishes being more desirable to collectors than repainted units.

How to Identify Chatillon Milk Scale?

• Look for the 'John Chatillon & Sons' branding and New York City origin stamped on the metal face.
• Verify the 20-pound capacity markings on the circular enamel or metal dial face.
• Check for the specific 1920-1940 era design featuring a heavy-duty hanging hook and top suspension loop.
• Examine the dial for the characteristic black numerals and increments typical of early 20th-century industrial design.

History of Chatillon Milk Scale

John Chatillon & Sons was a prominent scale manufacturer established in New York City in 1835. They became known for producing a wide range of precision scales, including industrial, medical, and household models. Milk scales like this one were essential tools for dairy farmers and creameries, used to accurately measure milk by weight, ensuring fair trade and consistent processing. These scales represent a significant part of agricultural history, reflecting the importance of precise measurement in food production before modern digital alternatives.