What is this tool? Patent Feb 4, 1904

[Spartcom5]

Found this at an antique store for $6, didn't buy it but I am curious. What the heck is it? Has a patent date of Feb 4, 1904. Has a screw that lets you use them like tweezers almost and then screws all the way down... I have tried looking it up but to no avail, thoughts?

 

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[No gold in NY]

Just a guess. It is a tweezer, but it will hold a specimen without constantly squeezing. Can be set down and picked up.

 

[mojjax]

drafting tool

 

[diggummup]

drafting tool

Part of a set and not worth $6.
Antique 9 Piece Weber Drafting Tool Set Patent 1904 Philadelphia | eBay

 

[ARC]

It is called a "compass".

 

[bigcaddy64]

Its called a Ruling Pen, not a compass

 

[bigcaddy64]

It for drawing lines of various thickness. Just turn that wheel for the desired width and get drawing.

 

[Tpmetal]

yup definitely drafting pen

 

[WoodnHead]

To add more detail - it is dipped into ink. The wheel allows you to vary the width of the line, the gap acts as an ink reservoir.

 

[tamrock]

Roach Clip

 

[AlienLifeForm]

Roach Clip

"Steampunk" roach clip.

 

[gunsil]

Woody has it right. The sets came with pencil lead holders and ones like posted which were for ink.