Hi all,

this decided to follow me home recently, for a reasonable price:

https://goo.gl/photos/VSLHHHP7s9kNbCPU6

Brass stem, ebony(?) stock, hefty brass wear plate which needs 
re-gluing. Any specific dos and don'ts in regards to the repair? I have 
included a few pics of the underneath of the wear plate - there appear 
to be some location pins or similar from inside the wooden part of the 
stock. I figure clean up the old glue, apply new glue, clamp and wait.

Anyone know the maker and possible date? Google obligingly finds me 
similar items, but there seems to be significant disagreement as to the 
manufacturer - perhaps a lot of people made very similar looking tools? 
I can't find anything so helpful as a maker's name.

This page shows something similar as an I Sorby : 
http://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auction-catalogues/david-stanley-
auctions/catalogue-id-srdav10002/lot-3cb29f7f-8975-4693-ad3b-
a3f7015a81c2">http://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auction-catalogues/david-
stanley-auctions/catalogue-id-srdav10002/lot-3cb29f7f-8975-4693-ad3b-
a3f7015a81c2

This page shows similar and says it's a Marples: 
http://www.findmytool.co.uk/marples-mortise-gauge-2140-review.php

Jim Bode lists something similar (but in really nice condition): 
http://www.jimbodetools.com/Fine-7-inch-Ebony-Mortise-Gauge-with-Solid-
Brass-Stem-p46444.html">http://www.jimbodetools.com/Fine-7-inch-Ebony-Mortise-
Gauge-with-Solid-Brass-Stem-p46444.html
but offers no guess as to maker.

It seems to be in serviceable condition - pins are in good nick, 
adjuster screw moves nicely. This thing is a pretty hefty piece... and 
also (to my eye) a rather pretty piece. Just goes to show when the 
antique shop owner says "Nah, there aren't many tools in stock at 
present" - it's still worth having a look!

Cheers,
Philip.