Watling 'Your Weight and Fortune' One Cent Platform Scale
Watling Scale Co. · Collectibles & Antiques > Vending, Tobacco & Arcade
Era / Decade
Early 1930s (approx. 1931-1934 based on patent numbers D-77772 and 1763840)
Material
Cast iron base and head cabinet; wood-grain finished metal or porcelain enamel column; mirrored glass front panel; brass and steel internal mechanical components.
Condition
Fair to Poor. The item is disassembled/broken. The cast iron base shows corrosion and detached components. The paint is worn and chipped. The fortune glass/mirror is intact but requires deep cleaning. Internal spring mechanism and fortune reel status are unknown.
Demand Level
Niche. High demand among specialized antique arcade and coin-op collectors, but low demand for general buyers due to size, weight, and condition.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$150.00 - $450.00 (As-is for parts/restoration) to $1,200.00 - $2,500.00 (Fully restored).
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $200.00 (Inflation-adjusted original cost was significantly lower, but modern equivalent 'luxury cabinet' scales retail for this range).
Comparable Sales
Restored Watling fortune scales have sold for $1,800–$3,500 on LiveAuctioneers. Non-working, 'barn find' condition units like this typically fetch $200–$500 at estate auctions depending on the completeness of internal parts.
Description
A rare vintage 1930s Watling 'Your Weight and Fortune' penny scale. This coin-operated machine features a mirrored column and a top display that would originally provide both weight and a fortune card for one cent. It features the classic 'No Springs' tagline and is identified by patent numbers D-48978, D-60912, D-77772, and 1763840. This is a heavy-duty industrial cast iron piece, currently in need of total restoration.
Key Features
Highly collectible 1930s Americana; features desirable 'Your Weight and Fortune' marquee; cast iron construction; prominent 'No Springs' gravity-fed reliability; authentic coin-op mechanism; recognized manufacturer (Watling).
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Original patent markings are clearly cast into the metal faceplate. The font and 'No Springs' logo are consistent with Watling historical catalogs.
Flaws to Note
Significant structural damage—the head/column is detached from the base. Heavy surface rust on the base. Chips in the enamel/paint. Missing the original fortune cards and likely needs internal mechanical calibration.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (Local Pickup Only), LiveAuctioneers, specialized Antique Coin-Op auctions, or high-end architectural salvage shops.
Selling Tips
Do not attempt a DIY 'home' paint job; collectors prefer the original patina or a professional restoration. List the patent numbers in the title. Emphasize that it is a 'restoration project.' Due to extreme weight (200+ lbs), local pickup or freight shipping is mandatory.