John Rabone & Sons spirit levels set the standard in early 20th-century British toolmaking—durable, precise, and built to last.

Discover key Rabone spirit level and plumb models, their construction details, materials, and how they were used by tradesmen from workshop to building site.

John Rabone Spirit Level No. 1621

The Rabone No. 1621 spirit level was made from selected hardwood and fitted with a single level tube. A solid brass top plate provided stability and wear resistance. These models were produced in lengths of 6, 8, 10, and 12 inches. Like other Rabone levels of the early 20th century, the 1621 was built for workshop use, offering accuracy with durable construction.

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John Rabone Canoe Shaped Plumb and Spirit Level No. 1625

The Rabone No. 1625 was a canoe-shaped combination plumb and level, produced in rosewood and fitted with both a horizontal level tube and a vertical plumb vial. It featured a solid brass top plate and a tipped bottom edge, designed for improved accuracy in vertical alignment. These tools were produced in sizes ranging from 6 to 12 inches and were commonly used by cabinetmakers, joiners, and site carpenters in the early 20th century. A variant, No. 1626, was made from walnut.

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John Rabone Canoe Shaped Bakelite Spirit Level No. 1623

Among the more distinctive designs in Rabone’s lineup was the “Canoe Shaped” spirit level, shown here in the 1950s catalogue as models No. 1623 and No. 1624. Constructed from a combination of Bakelite and aluminium, these 9-inch levels featured the company’s patented “Rainbow” tubes for improved visibility. Model 1624 added a 45° angled plumb tube, allowing for more versatile use in engineering and site work. Compact, durable, and clearly marked “Made in England,” these levels were engineered for practical field use.

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John Rabone Plumb and Spirit Level No. 113

The Rabone No. 113 was a large format combination plumb and level, measuring 3⅛ inches deep by 1¼ inches wide. It was equipped with one horizontal level tube and one vertical plumb vial. The design included adjustable components, brass cover plates, and tipped ends for added durability. These models were produced in lengths of 24, 27, 30, and 36 inches and were intended for heavy-duty carpentry and site work.

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John Rabone Non-Adjustable Plumb and Level No. 77

The Rabone No. 77 was a bricklayer’s spirit level and plumb, made from selected hardwood and fitted with one horizontal level tube and one vertical plumb vial. It measured 2⅝ inches deep by 1 inch wide and was non-adjustable. Brass tipping on the base and both ends protected against wear during masonry work. These models were produced in lengths from 24 to 48 inches. A related variant, No. 78, included two plumb vials for added functionality.

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John Rabone Non-Adjustable Level Lead Plumb Bob No. 79

The Rabone No. 79 was a non-adjustable plumb and level tool, measuring 2⅝ inches deep by 1 inch wide. It was fitted with one horizontal level tube and a vertical plumb tube containing an 8-ounce lead plumb bob and line. Designed for precise vertical alignment, this model was produced in lengths of 42 and 48 inches and was especially suited for use in masonry and building layout work.

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John Rabone Adjustable Plumb and Level No. 80

The Rabone No. 80 was a robust plumb and level, measuring 3 inches deep by 1 inch wide. It featured an adjustable design and was equipped with one pair of horizontal level tubes and two pairs of vertical plumb vials, making it suitable for precise multi-angle layout work. These levels were produced in lengths ranging from 24 to 48 inches. A variant, No. 90, was identical in form but included rubber buffer tips to protect the tool during heavy use.

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