#1 captures the concept we had in mind. I would try different fonts and thicknesses of the measuring units. The chunkier the better so that's it's visible from a distance. If you need a guide, think the Stanley Tools "Fat Max" logo. For example:
http://www.walmart.com/ip/14146134?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227009555649&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=18129525670&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=39986393350&veh=sem.