Here are two retractable tape measures. The one on the left is a classic by Stanley, the other, made by Panyi, clearly a cheaper clone. Looks the same, works the same… except for one small difference.
Notice the difference?
This type of tape measure has a stated offset printed on it, equal to the width of its metal case, to allow taking inner measurements. In the Stanley unit, the number is +50 mm, a clean round number that’s easy to add to the number you read on the tape. I also have a Stanley tape of different design that uses +60 mm… again, a nice round number.
But the cheap knock-off uses +55 mm – far less easy to rapidly add in your head. Couldn’t the manufacturer bother to add or subtract 5 mm to the case size?…
Bad, bad designer!
Note that Fisco measuring tape, which is one of the most popular tape for carpenters (its like an expensive clock, its a status symbol for carpenters), the length is also 55 mm. I agree that it is less convinient, but the tape is very professional and you can’t say its a bad design.
Great blog, by the way! if you read hebrew, I write a lot about ergonomics in my blog too, maybe you will find it intresting.
regards
http://www.thebigboystoyshop.com/fisco-up3me-uniplas-tape-3m–10ft—fscup3me-273455-p.asp