
Gripteze
Squeeze both handles to move the pointer on this Art Deco 'Odeon-style' combined grip test and peep show. Erotic enticement is added to the test of strength as the further the pointer advances the more attire the glamorous lady discards. |
Stevenson and Lovett 1946


Hill Climber
"Strength of lungs indicated by number of miles travelled. TWENTY SHILLINGS REWARD WILL BE PAID ON CONVICTION OF ANY PERSON PLACING RUBBISH IN THE SLOT OR OTHERWISE DAMAGING THIS MACHINE" reads the little notice. On half penny play, this was originally designed as a two player game with air tubes on both sides. Players competed to push a figure on a bike and a figure on foot up the hill by blowing down the tubes. A plaque identifying it as the property of Mr Rowland of Manchester suggests this is a Doughty & Barrett product. Lung-testers (or spirometers) made a brief appearance in bars and other public establishments before being implicated in the spread of TB. |
Doughty and Barrett 1902

Lighthouse Grip
Iconic seaside arcade piece, the tall Lighthouse Grip tester was in imposing sight in any arcade. The object was to progressively light the windows by squeezing the handles together, attempting to reach the beacon at the top, whereupon a siren announced your achievement to everyone. |
Quested Automatics 1932

Test Your Muscles
Try to ring the bell by twisting the handle. According to patent GB20660, this rare wrist strength tester was originally conceived to incorporate an advert and award a cigar or cigarette for a twist exceeding (for example) 120 lbs. |
James Garrow 1890

Try Your Grip
"Moderate strength rings the bell... Great strength returns the penny" Patent US452688 |
Barrett 1890