Doug DeHaven This was an interesting find, I saw it at an obscure shop on a shelf with some pottery. The wood box drew my attention, but when I opened it and saw the Ford logo it had me hooked. I had to pick it up and learn more about it!
As a collector and enthusiast of vintage measurement tools, discovering a rare piece like the Ford branded CE Johansson CEJ 200E-1 Internal Bore Micrometer is truly exhilarating. This precision instrument, nestled in its hand-made wooden box, represents a fascinating blend of engineering prowess and historical significance.
The CE Johansson CEJ 200E-1 Internal Bore Micrometer is not just any measuring tool. It’s a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of its era. CE Johansson, often referred to as the father of precision measurement, revolutionized the field with his groundbreaking work in the early 20th century. His inventions set new standards for accuracy, which became critical in the burgeoning automotive industry.
The connection to Ford adds another layer of intrigue. During the early 1900s, Henry Ford recognized the importance of precision in manufacturing, particularly for the mass production of automobiles. He adopted Johansson’s methods and tools, integrating them into Ford’s manufacturing processes. This collaboration helped Ford achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency and quality control.
The CEJ 200E-1 Internal Bore Micrometer, branded with the iconic Ford logo, exemplifies this partnership. Designed to measure the internal diameter of bores with extreme precision, this micrometer was essential in ensuring the consistency and reliability of engine components and other critical parts. The meticulous craftsmanship of the micrometer, coupled with its robust design, ensured it could withstand the demanding conditions of a factory environment while maintaining its accuracy.
The hand-made wooden box that houses the micrometer is a work of art in itself. Crafted to protect this delicate instrument, the box speaks to the value placed on precision tools during that era. It’s a reminder of a time when quality and durability were paramount, and when tools were built to last generations.
Today, the CE Johansson CEJ 200E-1 Internal Bore Micrometer is a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item. Its historical significance, combined with its technical precision, makes it a prized possession for enthusiasts like myself. Displaying it in my collection, I am reminded of the remarkable advancements in measurement and manufacturing that it represents.
In practical terms, this micrometer is still capable of delivering precise measurements. For those who appreciate the art of machining and the science of measurement, using a tool like this connects us to a rich history of innovation. It’s a tangible link to the pioneering work of CE Johansson and the industrial might of Ford, serving as a bridge between past and present.
Reflecting on the legacy of the CE Johansson CEJ 200E-1 Internal Bore Micrometer, I am filled with admiration for the engineers and craftsmen who created such remarkable tools. In an age where technology evolves at a rapid pace, it’s inspiring to hold a piece of history that embodies timeless principles of precision, quality, and ingenuity.
Here is what it looked like when I first got it, it was a bit rusty in spots, and did not move well.
While I had it appart to clean and polish the metal, I took some shots of the inside, it is a work of art of levers and pivots to be able to measure 10,000th of an inch is incredable level of precesion for levers and asembly tech of the time!
In my research looking more into this, I found these online photos that show what this prototype became eventualy. As noted on mine is shows ‘patent applied for’ where these ones have the proper CE Johansson name and ‘Patented’ mark on them.
