Vintage Halda Taxi Meter

A vintage Halda taxi meter. Possible from the 1930s.

Made from a cast metal case, bevelled glass front, solid metal fitments and a manual wind mechanical 'clock' style mechanism.

This meter would have charged by time and distance as stated on the face of the meter. The whole operation is mechanical and quite smooth. Using the "For Hire" arm, the meter moves from "For hire" to "Hired" to "Stopped". The bell is struck with each change of status. 

When in hired mode, 6 is immediately displayed in the "pence" window. The meter has a solid tick and every 3 mins 45 secs approx. adds a further 3d to the fare. I have tested this aspect up to 10 shillings. I am not able to test the distance recording but assume that any purchaser will be buying for reasons other than use!

The mechanism, which is essentially a clock, is wound from the rear with about a quarter of half turn clockwise. There is a handle for "extras" but this appears to work only intermittently.

A heavy and solid piece of equipment and a nice piece of working social history. Approx. 9kg.

The main case of the meter is 22 cm x 15 cm x 13 cm. Maximum height with arm raised 31 cm. Maximum depth 17 cm. maximum width 20 cm.

Enquiries welcome.