Signedon pencil body, opposite clip: RUXTON MULTI-VIDER PENCIL
FunctionFor writing, and for multiplying and dividing pairs of numbers. The low number of divisions indicates that this was an instrument designed for convenience rather than accuracy.
Because the clip side of the pencil slides in only one direction, the values from which he is calculating will determine which sets of scales the user uses.
To multiply using scales A and B: The user first moves the A-scale half of the pencil to the right such that the A scale's left index (arrow) points to the multiplicand on the B scale. Then, holding the slide in place, he locates the multiplier on the A scale. The coincident value on the B scale is the product.
To divide using scales A and B: The user first moves the A-scale half of the pencil to the right such that the divisor on the A scale coincides with the dividend on the B scale. Then, holding the slide in place, he locates the left index (arrow) on the A scale scale. The value to which it points on the B scale is the quotient.
To multiply using scales C and D: The user first moves the D-scale half of the pencil to the right such that the C scale's right index (arrow) points to the multiplicand on the D scale. Then, holding the slide in place, he locates the multiplier on the C scale. The coincident value on the D scale is the product.
To divide using scales C and D: The user first moves the D-scale half of the pencil to the right such that the divisor on the C scale coincides with the dividend on the D scale. Then, holding the slide in place, he locates the right index (arrow) on the C scale. The coincident value on the D scale is the quotient.
Twisting the point of the pencil advances the lead.
ProvenanceDavid Wheatland.
Related WorksOtnes, Bob. "Slide Rule Pencils." Journal of the Oughtred Society 1, no. 2 (August 1992): 11-12.