Ohaus Triple Beam Balance Value Guide

The Ohaus Triple Beam Balance is a cornerstone of American scientific history, manufactured by the Ohaus Corporation which has led the industry since 1907. These scales are highly collectible due to their robust cast iron and steel construction, representing a pre-digital era of mechanical precision in laboratories and classrooms.

What Is Ohaus Triple Beam Balance Worth?

The typical price range for Ohaus Triple Beam Balance is $75 - $100 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical calibration accuracy and the smooth movement of the sliding steel poises significantly impact the $75-$100 price range.
• The physical condition of the stainless steel weighing pan, specifically the absence of chemical corrosion or deep scratches.
• Presence of the original attachment weights (500g or 1000g) which were often sold separately to increase total capacity.
• Structural integrity of the cast iron frame, ensuring there are no hairline fractures or significant paint loss from laboratory use.

How to Identify Ohaus Triple Beam Balance?

• Check for the 'Ohaus' brand name and 'Made in USA' stamp on the cast iron base or the aluminum beam.
• Verify the presence of three distinct tiered beams with sliding poise weights designed for integrated measurement.
• Look for the characteristic mid-century industrial grey or off-white powder-coated finish common to the 1960s-1980s era.
• Inspect the magnetic damping system near the pointer, a signature feature of Ohaus models for stabilizing the beam quickly.

History of Ohaus Triple Beam Balance

Ohaus Corporation has been a leading manufacturer of balances and scales since 1907. The triple beam balance, a staple in science education and laboratories, was developed to provide accurate measurements without the need for external weights. Its robust design and reliability made it a standard instrument for decades.