5/25    on my tape measure, there is a little black diamond every 19 3/16
        of an inch.  This is not half a meter(its off by over a
        centimeter).  what the hell is it?  we have something in the
        lab that was machined in england which is exactly that height,
        and it seems like an unlikely coincidence, if that gives any
        clues.  thanks.
        \_ I would guess it's the distance center-to-center from one stud to the
           next, but I thought that was every 18". -emarkp
        \_  Q. What is the 19 3/16 inch marks at the small diamonds on my
            tape measure?

            A. 19 3/16 multiplied by five equals 96 inches(95 15/16) or
            eight feet. This is another stud layout. It is typically used
            by commercial builders when minimum code is satisfied. This
            practice cuts cost on framing material on large jobs.
            \_ thank you.
            \_ thank you.  i guess the dimensions of our part that was
               machined in england are just a coincidence.