Stanley celebrates 50th birthday with gold Powerlock
The world’s number one selling tape rule, the Stanley Powerlock, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion and give something back to its loyal users, Stanley has developed a limited edition gold coloured product, available from merchants this autumn. On 1st April 1963, inventor and Stanley employee, Robert West, revolutionised the hand tool […]
Stanley’s 5m Gold PowerLock
The world’s number one selling tape rule, the Stanley Powerlock, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion and give something back to its loyal users, Stanley has developed a limited edition gold coloured product, available from merchants this autumn.
On 1st April 1963, inventor and Stanley employee, Robert West, revolutionised the hand tool industry, filing a US patent to adapt the existing short tape rule. This saw the introduction of the first ever slide locking mechanism with a coilable spring and the iconic D-shape that is widely recognised today. This novel innovation meant that users were able to lock the rule in an extended position for the first time providing greater accuracy and ease of use.
Still going strong 50 years on, the Stanley Powerlock tape rule is an integral item in every toolbox and even featured as part of the lunar landing gear for NASA’s Apollo 11 space mission. With 9m units sold annually around the world the original Powerlock® tape has since inspired many versions of today’s modern tape measure.
Robin Mathai, at Stanley Tools MEA, comments: “The original Stanley Powerlock tape is one of the most iconic hand tools ever invented. Although many other manufacturers have gone on to replicate the mechanism, the Powerlock remains the most trusted by professionals for its promise of quality and durability. Every day, millions of users around the world rely on its ability to get the job done right”.
“As such an important influence in the industry, we wanted to celebrate the legacy of the Powerlock in its 50th year and give something back to its loyal fans with a limited edition collectable product.”
