This tool is based on the George H. Thomas design in his book "The Model Engineers Workshop Manual" by Tee Publishing and enlarged slightly for 10 and 12 inch lathes common in the US.  In use it allows you to quickly set the lathe tool to center height as measured from the ways or from the crosslide table.  The pointers are fixed in height for your lathe, and may be easily rotated for best positioning.

It also lends itself to embellishment.   It can be simple and square, chamfered for a slightly dressier look or decorated like early industrial equipment.  If you do a variety of lathe work this is a tool you will use every day and you may as well make it something you will enjoy having around.

Order Height Gage Kit - $23

Order Height Gage Complete - $53