Abstract: A device for hand-held measurement of distances (d) to a surface region of an object (22), including a housing (2) and a lens system (3) for the optical measurement of distances (d). Transmission beams are transmitted via the lens system against the surface region and the beams (5) reflected there are recollected. The device additionally includes a first component (6, 7, 8, 8?, 8 9) connected to the housing (2) which may be extended beyond the housing for the measurement of short distances in the direction of emission of the transmitted beams and furthermore which acts as a spacer (9) for the optical measurement. The extended state of the component (6, 7, 8, 8?, 9) is automatically determined be a feeler device.