Maybe they’re using a shrink ruler from a foundry. It’s an actual thing & the measurements are larger than a standard ruler, as it’s for making the molds & the measurements allow for the shrinkage of the molten metal as it cools. There are different ones for each metal & alloy.
When I was a kid, we were nearly hit head on by a driver on the wrong side of the road at a pigtail bridge. I’ve never forgotten the absolute look of terror on that man’s face!
He’s been very good to the Five Families of NYC Mafia. They control the concrete & garbage business there & he always hires them for his projects.