Stanley celebrates 50 years of PowerLock tape measure with special editions

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — Stanley Tools is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its launch of the PowerLock tape measure line by releasing a limited-edition series of five tape measures featuring new designs to highlight its history, the company said Friday.

The tributes include a replication of the original "Life Guard Yellow" design; a "Made in the USA" version; a version that celebrates its inclusion in the lunar landing gear of the Apollo 11; an homage to the "Badge of the Professional" name; and a nod to the company's legacy of invention. The D-shaped PowerLock design was introduced in 1963 and included the world's first coinable spring and sliding lock.

"We are excited to celebrate our heritage of innovation and proud of the fact that it continues to be manufactured with global materials in the original plant here in New Britain, Conn., USA," Stanley global product manager Tom Chang said. The tape measures will be available this month for $9.99.