On the other hand, the scale has a number of complicated mechanical devices that require technically skilled people for assembly and testing. Among these is a magnetic force motor that requires both precision machining and very exacting assembly. The mechanism that holds the weighing pan and eliminates the effects of end loading is also complicated and delicate. It usually involves the use of flexures made of a soft metal such as copper or bronze. These mechanical parts and their associated labor produce a continuous upward pressure on pricing.  

The upward pricing pressure on the mechanical parts is greater than the downward pressure provided by the electronic parts. In addition, the mechanical parts and associated labor represent a greater percentage of the total cost of the scale. The upward pressure in recent years has been about 5% per year. The downward pressure provided by the electronics has only been about 1% per year in recent years. The net effect is an upward price increase of about 3 to 4% per year.

There are other pressures that also have a significant effect on the pricing of precision scales. Most of today’s precision scales are produced offshore. This means   scale pricing is subject to currency fluctuations. These fluctuations are unpredictable and can go in either direction. A popular form of gambling, these days, is to play the currency markets.  However, as China comes under pressure to bring its currency value in line with the dollar we can expect to see scales increase in price.

In addition, there are two major players that control other companies in the market and they can position products, by price, in accordance with an overall marketing strategy. These two companies, Mettler and Sartorius, dominate the high-end market and produce a great deal more than just precision scales.