The Piece

Mid-Century American Portion Control Scale c.1959
Pelouze Model YG-180
Enameled steel, Evanston, Illinois

A mid-20th-century American mechanical portion control scale manufactured by Pelouze in Evanston, Illinois. Designed for institutional and commercial kitchens, this scale features a heavy enameled steel body, integrated platform, and a high-contrast dial calibrated for precision rather than retail trade.

The bold graphic face, marked “5 Pound Portion Controller,” reflects late-1950s industrial design priorities: clarity, durability, and authority. The mechanical movement remains fully enclosed within a squared steel housing, emphasizing function over ornament.

Product Details

→ Manufacturer: Pelouze
→ Model: YG-180
→ Capacity: 5 lb
→ Marked “Not Legal for Trade”
→ Enameled steel construction
→ Manufactured in Evanston, Illinois
→ ©1959

Historical Context

During the post-war expansion of American institutions, portion control became a standardized requirement in schools, hospitals, and corporate food service. Mechanical scales such as this were essential tools for enforcing nutritional guidelines, cost efficiency, and consistency across large-scale operations.

Pelouze was among the manufacturers supplying this infrastructure, producing equipment that prioritized longevity and mechanical reliability. Objects like this were rarely seen by the public, yet they shaped daily routines across mid-century America.

Condition + Updates

Good vintage condition.

The scale shows surface wear, paint loss, and light oxidation consistent with institutional use. The dial remains legible, and the pointer is intact. No structural damage is observed. The piece has not been modified or cosmetically restored.

Why It Belongs in Your Home

This is industrial design with presence.

The scale functions equally well as a sculptural object, a utilitarian kitchen accent, or a studio prop. Its weight and mechanical honesty contrast sharply with contemporary plastic appliances, making it ideal for kitchens, studios, lofts, or curated shelves where form follows function unapologetically.

It does not pretend to be decorative. That’s the appeal.

From Viridian Eclection

Viridian Eclection curates objects shaped by labor, systems, and everyday authority. This scale represents mid-century America’s faith in engineering and standardization—preserved as an artifact of function made visible.