Precision instruments by Short & Mason, London early 20th century

Short & Mason were precision instrument makers based in Hatton Garden, London, England. The company was founded in 1864 by Thomas Watling Short and William James Mason. Short was a skilled mechanic who had previously worked for other instrument makers, while Mason was a businessman. The company established a reputation for producing high-quality precision instruments, including barometers, thermometers, hygrometers, aneroids, and other meteorological instruments. Short & Mason also produced surveying instruments, optical instruments, and other scientific instruments. From the beginning of the 20th century a significant part of their business was the production of Aneroid barometers.

The company's products were used by a wide range of customers, including scientists, engineers, surveyors, and navigators and by the British government and military. In the early 20th century, Short & Mason was one of the leading precision instrument makers in the world.

Short & Mason continued to produce precision instruments until more... the mid-20th century and closed down in 1959. The company's products are a testament to the high standards of craftsmanship that were achieved by British instrument makers in the early 20th century. less...