A device for verifying or measuring a minimum value of a previously applied torque on a workpiece such as bolt, nut, etc., includes a motor, a reduction gear assembly, a torque transducer and a fastener engaging member, including a rotatably spindle. The motor causes the spindle to rotate. A torsion bar interposed the spindle and the motor absorbs the inertia of the motor when the motor is stopped to minimize torque overshoot, as well as taking up the rotation generated by the motor immediately upon engagement with a workpiece. An angle encoder senses any rotation of the workpiece caused by the rotation of the spindle. Any rotation of the workpiece means that the previously applied torque is below a minimum predetermined value.