Malcom,
In the US, 2x4 studs in stick framed construction is a standard 16" center to
center.  Pre marked tape measure makes for quick/accurate layout.

Cheers

Alan
On Thursday, April 17, 2014 4:33 PM, Malcolm Thomas  wrote:
  

Purchased a MF No 1506 tape measure, arrived today.  Every 16” is marked with
two red triangles..

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/37914238/wood/MF%201506%20marks.JPG
">https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/37914238/wood/MF%201506%20marks.JPG

Any clues as to why every 16” is marked this way ? 


Cheers
Mal
Oz
(Perth to be more precise)