c.1955–1970 Wedderburn Scales Precision Baby Scales with Weights, Australia

A mid-20th century Australian-made Wedderburn precision baby scale set with original metal weights, displayed with a 1960s OK Kader doll.

This mid-century precision baby scale by Wedderburn features a large curved enamel tray mounted on a mechanical balance beam system. The painted metal base supports a horizontal measuring arm with graduated markings, adjustable sliding weights, and a hanging counter weight system. The set includes a group of original metal calibration weights, used to ensure accuracy during weighing.The scale is displayed with a 1960s OK Kader baby doll to demonstrate its original function and scale, though the doll is not part of the original equipment.

Wedderburn Scales Pty Ltd is an Australian company established in the early 20th century and became a leading manufacturer and distributor of weighing equipment. By the 1950s and 1960s, their precision scales were widely used in hospitals, pharmacies, and infant health clinics across Australia. The design reflects utilitarian mid-century engineering, prioritising durability, accuracy, and ease of use in professional settings.

Baby scales such as this were essential tools in maternal and child health care, used to monitor infant growth and development. The mechanical beam system allowed for precise measurement without reliance on electricity, making them reliable and widely adopted. Today, these scales are valued as display pieces, particularly in doll collections and nursery-themed exhibits, where they provide historical context for childcare practices.

Features

Measurements: 660x 350 x 360 mm

Condition: Excellent

Markings: Wedderburn manufacturer plate present; additional service label noted (Supreme ScaleService)

Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available researchand stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact usto help update our records.

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Made from the following materials

Metal has played a significant role in the history of dolls and toys, with materials like cast iron, tin, and brass being used for centuries to create durable and appealing playthings. Each type of metal has distinct characteristics that have influenced its application in the toy industry, leading to a variety of designs and styles.

Cast Iron

Cast iron was one of the first metals used in toy manufacturing, particularly during the 19th century. Its strength and durability made it ideal for creating toys that could withstand the rigors of play. Cast iron toys were often made using molds, allowing for mass production and the creation of intricate designs. Popular cast iron toys included figurines, toy cars, and trains, many of which featured detailed craftsmanship and decorative paintwork. These toys were not only popular with children but also became collectible items over time, cherished for their historical significance and nostalgic appeal.

Tin

Tin, often used in the form of tinplate, became a favored material for toy manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tin toys were lightweight, affordable, and could be produced in large quantities, making them accessible to a wide audience. Tinplate was often stamped or lithographed with colorful designs, bringing characters and scenes to life. Classic examples of tin toys include wind-up cars, robots, and playful animals, many of which featured moving parts that delighted children. Tin toys remain popular among collectors today, valued for their charm and the artistry involved in their design.

Brass

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been used in toy making for its attractive appearance and durability. It is particularly well-suited for creating smaller components, such as gears and mechanisms in wind-up toys. The shiny, golden hue of brass gives toys a sense of elegance and sophistication, often seen in decorative pieces and collectibles. While brass dolls are less common than those made from other materials, some artisans have crafted beautiful dolls with brass accents, adding a touch of luxury to their designs.

Throughout history, the use of metal in dolls and toys has allowed for a diverse range of creations, each reflecting the technological advancements and artistic trends of their time. The durability of metal ensures that many of these toys have stood the test of time, allowing them to be enjoyed by new generations of children and collectors alike.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of metal dolls and toys, highlighting their role in the evolution of play and the craftsmanship that goes into creating these timeless treasures. From the strength of cast iron to the whimsical designs of tin and the elegance of brass, these materials tell a rich story of creativity and innovation in the world of toys.

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