Defines a procedure for the measurement of metal coating thickness by first forming a step between the surface of the coating and the surface of its substrate and then determining the step height using a profile recording instrument. Provides the instrumentation characteristics and the procedure appropriate to this application of profilometric methods. Relates to the measurement of thicknesses of metal coatings from 0,01 micron m to 1,000 micron m on flat surfaces and on cylindrical surfaces. Preferred for the measurement of minute thicknesses down to 0,01 micron m. Acceptable for measuring coating thicknesses when preparing coating thickness reference standards.