Abstract: A twin gauge and a twin needle sphygmomanometer. In the twin gauge embodiment separate systolic and diastolic gauges are provided. Both gauges are synchronized during initial pressurization of a pressure cuff and during the first portion of cuff depressurization. Upon detection of the first Korotkov sounds, the closing of a tangent valve "freezes" the systolic gauge for later reading. Upon detecting the last Korotkov sounds, a cotter valve coupling an air pump to the pressure cuff is closed, freezing the diastolic pressure on the diastolic gauge. In the twin needle embodiment, systolic and diastolic needles are synchronized during initial pressurization of the pressure cuff. As pressure in the cuff is bled both needles remain synchronized until the first Korotkov sounds are heard. Then, actuation of a clutch mechanism freezes the systolic needle. Upon detecting the last Korotkov sounds, the main cotter valve is closed to freeze the diastolic needle.