The invention relates to a capacitive distance pick-up having a plurality of systems consisting in each case of a rule, a vernier and a coupling capacitor of different divisions. The measured voltages generated in the individual systems are phase-shifted with respect to each other. The phase shift is evaluated and serves for the determination of the absolute value of the position of the distance pick-up in the measuring range. The distance measurement can thus be carried out with high accuracy, without reference marking or direction recognition. In a rotationally symmetrical arrangement, the distance pick-up is particularly suitable for building into hydraulic cylinders or other components whose travel is intended to be measured.
