Unusual plumb bob with reel

[Gentleman Jim]

This is the first example of this particular plumb bob I have seen. It is reversible, contains a string reel and is fully nickel plated. It is 6" tall and weighs about 1.5 lb. I have been unable to identify the maker or an associated patent after spending quite a bit of time reviewing all of the plumb bob news letters. Any thoughts or information would be much appreciated.

[attachment=504][attachment=501][attachment=499]

[AHill]

Can't see your pics, but I'm guessing that the reel and longer line would indicate it's for masonry work.  Could also be used for timber framing vs. a spirit level.

[Gentleman Jim]

Pictures fixed, hopefully

[Herb G]

I can see the pics. Never saw the tool though.

[Tony Z]

I've got literally several hundred different plumb bobs in my "accumulation" and I've never seen one quite like that one. Nice find!

[knockknock]

I don't know if this was ever made, but your plumb bob is real close:

http://www.google.com/patents/US2713211

2 Claims. (Cl. 33-216) This invention relates to a centering device particularly adapted for use in combination with the frame or chassis of a motor vehicle, and in particular a weight in the form of a plumb-bob having a pulley block on the upper end and a point extended from the lower end whereby with the pulley positioned to travel on a cord suspended with slack therein between two points the weight of the device will cause the pulley to travel to a point substantially midway between the two points from which the cord is suspended.

[Boatman53]

I like it. That seems to explain the small pulley, I didn't really think it was for storing the string.
The pics don't show the top, but from what I can see it appears solid without a hole to feed a string through so the bob would hang from the middle.
Jim

[Gentleman Jim]

Thanks for the reference to the patent. There is a hole in the top so the plumb bob can hang normally. When first found it was assembled upside down and looked very unusual. I figured out later the top and bottom were interchangeable. I assume the upside down position was to lower the center of gravity and make it less susceptible of wind. I will post some more pictures tomorrow showing close ups of the reeling mechanism. Thanks to all for the help.

[Gentleman Jim]

[attachment=517][attachment=516][attachment=516][attachment=514][attachment=514]Adding additional pictures.

[JimReed@Tallahassee]

"Self centering"
Now that could be downright handy.