The Oxford Set of Mathematical Instruments is a set of instruments used by generations of school children in the United Kingdom and around the world in mathematics and geometry lessons. The set is marketed in over 100 countries by Helix. Helix (also known as Helix Oxford or Maped Helix) is a United Kingdom-based manufacturer of stationery. It exports to over 65 countries, with offices in Hong Kong and US, and has its UK headquarters in Kingswinford in the West Midlands. Helix was established in 1887 under the name 'The Universal Woodworking Company Ltd.; it manufactured wooden rulers and metal laboratory apparatus. In 1894, it patented the drawing compass and, with it, launched the Helix brand, following on from the initial success of the compass and rule. In 1912, the company's first mathematical set was created; and, in 1935, the brand "Helix Oxford" was launched. In 1955 the company was renamed the Helix Universal Company, and moved its headquarters to Lye, West Midlands. In the 1960s, the name was changed to Helix International Ltd.

Having the right office stationery just sets you up for a good day at work. Get organised and stay on top of your workload with Ryman. As a starting point, we’d recommend: In 2004, the company's factory in Lye ceased production. [1] In January 2012, the company entered administration. On 8 February 2012 the company stated, "The joint administrators from Grant Thornton UK LLP are currently speaking to a number of interested parties and have received offers for the sale of the business as a going concern." [2] One week later, the company was bought by the French Maped group. [3] Maped Helix [ edit ] Since 1893, Ryman® has been selling stationery supplies all over the UK. We were the first-ever self-service stationery shop, servicing London’s thriving businesses, letter-writers, and artists from our store on Great Portland Street. While the modern world would have been unimaginable to Henry J Ryman, we like to think we've carried on his legacy into the 21st century and beyond. As long as people need stationery, we’ll be supplying it.