The force-measuring device includes a measuring unit and a reference unit, the latter serving to deliver a reference quantity, a reference current (IREF) or a reference voltage (UREF), by means of which the force (FMO) of a measurement object which is to be determined can be measured by the measuring unit. According to the invention, the reference unit is a force-measuring device which is loaded with a reference mass and which in accordance with the principle of electromagnetic force compensation generates a reference current (IREF) that can be regulated by means of a measuring- and regulating device in such a way that in a first reference coil which is held by a reference lever the reference current (IREF) generates a magnetic field which cooperates with the magnetic field of a reference magnet in such a way that a magnetic force is brought to bear on the reference lever, wherein the force (FREF) of the reference mass which is likewise acting on the reference lever can be compensated by said magnetic force.