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Calculation Related antiques we have sold.
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Most prices seen reflect actual sale results from this website.
Prices seen
span a long time and may not reflect current values. Some are selling
for more, many now sell for less.
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with or without an explanation. The reasons for that are discussed on the FAQ page.
Our current offering of Antiques for sale are at our sister Website Patented-Antiques.com.
c.
1700 Pierre Fardoil Adding Machine & Watch / Time Piece
I am half owner of this rare and early Pierre Fardoil Adder / Adding Machine and Fardoil Watch / Time piece
and am offering for sale my entire 1/2 ownership in this rare 18th c. Fardoil adder or a portion of it as a partnership.
Here is the history of this rare piece of calculation history --- please read on.
The Fardoil adder is one of the earliest and rarest 18th century calculation devices known. The 2 pieces pictured are the very same Fardoil Adder / Adding Machine and Fardoil Pocket Watch that brought approx. $74,000 at the Auction-Team Breker sale about 10 years ago.
Here is a web address to that auction result and the original write-up that can be found online: www.liveauctioneers.com/item/36708195_the-adding-machine-of-pierre-fardoil-c-1700. The same two pieces are currently listed for sale on my partner's website for $74,000 or so.
This Fardoil adder is one of only two known, and could be the only known example if it is the same one that the French Musee des Arts et Metiers (CNAM), the French State Museum, has expressed an ownership right to. CNMA claimed their Fardoil adder was "lost", stolen, or otherwise disappeared from their collection when it was on display in the US during 1939 New York World's Fair. This Fardoil adder was bought in upstate NY prior to the Breker auction from a private party.
The high bidder at the Breker auction for this Fardoil Adder was Professor Korte from the University of Bonn, bidding to acquire it for the Arithmeum museum in Bonn, Germany. The high bidder backed out from finalizing the Breker auction sale due in part to the CNAM claim. The underbidder also backed away.
The two Fardoil pieces were then returned to the consignors---myself and the other 1/2 owner, Peter Frei an antique dealer based in Massachusetts. He is my ex-friend and current partner in the two pieces. He is currently in possession of both pieces.
Peter Frei and I had been partners in numerous technology-related antiques prior to having a falling out. Our friendship ended one day over a situation concerning an antique sewing machine I had paid for that we were 50 / 50 partners on. Peter entered into an agreement with a 3rd party offering him 50% to sell it without consulting or discussing that decision with me.
His deal with a 3rd party made me a 25% junior partner. When I questioned his decision, Peter in a fit of rage declared we were no longer friends and that our partnership was over. There is more to this story that is irrelevant to this sale that does not need to be retold here.
What should be told is the story of who first found the adder---that would be me---and details surrounding that event.
The Fardoil sellers lived in upstate NY. They contacted me first and I made an appointment to go see it. They told me that the adder had been "found" in New York, and the now deceased "finder" had been a caretaker / custodian / groundskeeper / employee when he "found" it. The family told me they had had it appraised at Sotheby's or Christies auction house for approx. 5K. I offered to purchase it from them for the same amount in cash.
The family initially said no, but months later called me and said they were ready to sell the Fardoil. As I was back in CA by that time I called Peter and enlisted him to go and get it. I offered him to be 50/50 partners on the Fardoil. He agreed and went and got it. We split the cost 50/50. He later bought the Fardoil watch and we split the cost of that as well.
For various reasons Peter handled consigning the Fardoil to Breker's Auction. The Breker auction failed after the French Musee des Arts et Metiers / CNAM cast doubt on the rightful ownership of the Fardoil and the Arithmeum backed out of the sale. After the auction failed to produce a sale we agreed to let Peter market the Fardoil to the under bidder or other parties. It was offered to the under bidder, but that attempt failed. Later the CNAM made a relatively low offer, not to purchase the Fardoil, but rather as compensation for us having found it and returning it. That offer was rejected.
Then something akin to the storyline in Lord of the Rings began to unfold, and the "my precious" concept began to take hold, much like with Gollum and his "my precious" in the Lord of the Rings story. Peter, despite saying he was ready to sell, and that he wanted to sell the Fardoil, could not bear to let it go, or have it leave his hands.
The disclosure of these details is necessary because provenance / history of ownership of important historical pieces is vital to establishing and enhancing an objects value. In addition I want to insure there are no claims of non-disclosure or other problems down the road from the buyer of my 1/2 share or a new partner of a 50% share of my half share.
ThThe attempts after the failed auction for Peter and I to settle up on the Fardoil should also be told so that potential parties interested in buying into a 1/2 share are fully informed and can better formulate a plan to finalize / force the sale with Peter.
After the failed auction and over the next 10 years Peter offered several proposals to resolve the Fardoil situation between us --- all in writing and documented---but then reneged on following through on every single one of them. For the record, let's review some of those past proposals:
ImImmediately after the auction Peter wrote that if the high bidder or under bidder would not pay the original sale price it had brought at auction he would simply buy us out for 1/2 of the high bid, as we both felt it had not reached its full potential because of the French interference. He never followed through on that proposal, later claiming it was just a negotiation tactic. Despite the fact he was not negotiating with anyone at the time.
Shortly after Peter ended our friendship, and after the auction, he announced we would settle up over the Fardoil by having a private auction between us, with a third party holding the Fardoil until that process was complete. He reneged on that proposal shortly after, claiming he did not have enough money.
Peter next demanded we wait, and be patient, as the Fardoil was in his words, "burned" by the French, their claims, and the failed auction.
In 2019, 5 years after the auction and after numerous requests by us to resolve the situation, Peter said to wait one more year to see if he could sell it from his new website. In writing he said that if it did not sell from his website at the end of the 1 year period we would send it to auction again. He proposed that in writing and then reneged on that solution with no explanation or excuse.
Peter next suggested we should name a price he could buy us out at, with the stipulation that he would need 6 months to gather the money. A proposal that was neither fair nor equitable, but in the interest of ending this ordeal we proposed selling our half interest to him for $18K --- approx. 25% of the original sale price of $73K it had reached at the Breker auction. $18K equated to approx. half of what we were due had the auction succeeded---a reasonable offer by us to resolve this.
Peter rejected that offer outright saying he would never pay that amount, with no meaningful counter or discussion. That was over 2 years ago, much longer than the 6 months he said would be needed to raise funds to buy us out, once again reneging on a proposal he himself put forward.
Most recently in Dec of 2024 we suggested listing it for sale on our two websites at a lower price, to give it more exposure and to further enhance its desirability and value. To do that we needed to discuss a price beforehand that we could both agree to. Peter declined, and instead wrote he alone would decide if he would agree to a lower price AFTER I found a buyer---a stupid and unworkable proposal not worth discussing further, and mentioned here only to illustrate the absurdity.
After all of that we have decided to sell or take on a new partner for our 1/2 share / half interest in the Fardoil. Our hope is that a qualified and interested 3rd party with a new or different approach or plan might be better able to deal with, or negotiate with, Peter better than I. I am going to try to make this simple, reasonable, and enticing with a lot of potential upside for the right interested party.
Here are my proposals. One option would be to purchase my 1/2 share ownership in it's entirety for $18K or some agreed to amount. Since that is unlikely to happen given the situation, I have a better alternative idea to present.
A second option would be for a qualified and acceptable individual, or entity to purchase a half share of my 1/2 share for a small upfront investment. In other words I will agree to split my 1/2 share proceeds of the final sale of the Fardiol with my new partner for a very small initial investment if presented with a workable plan to resolve this situation.
I am thinking the initial investment would be something on the order of 1K in return for the right to 25% of the total sale price---50% of my share of any final sale. A reasonable expectation would be, using the Breker auction result of 70K, a payout amount somewhere in the 18K range for each of us. We can make a gentleman's agreement to reflect this, or I will sign an acceptable agreement drawn up by the new partner or his lawyer.
If the Breker sale price had been held down because of the French interference, the payout could be more if the Fardoil was again sent to auction and brings more than the 73K it brought the first time it sold. Or some uber wealthy party my new partner knows of could pay even more in a private sale.
Another possibility is the French can step up with another offer. If the French enter into this partnership and then take their claim of complete ownership to court, they could end up being declared the sole owner at little further cost.
This proposal for a half interest in the Fardoil would be a great deal for the right person or entity who thinks they can negotiate with Peter Frei, or otherwise close the deal or force a sale. Just think, a documented ownership in a rare probably one-of-a-kind and unique piece of calculation history for a fraction of its potential value!
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FARDOIL
Price . . . . . . $ TBD
To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com
Curta
Type 1 Calculator w/ Case & Paperwork The
serial # on this early Type 1 Curta is 36384. That would date this from approx. 1957. This
Curta Calculator is in good condition and operates flawlessly. The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear.
The outer metal case shows considerably more wear and losses to the black finish. In addition to the serial number the bottom of the calculator it is stamped Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, System Curt Herzstark. Dimensions of the outer metal case are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter.
The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's.
In todays world they are at times used in road rallies and other applications but they are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. The last examples were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Good + . . . . . $1100.00 SOLD!!
Type
I Curta Calculator
The serial # on this early Type 1 Curta is
39999. This
Type I Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates flawlessly.
The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. There are minor
scuffs and losses on the outer metal case. The previous owners name
was professionally inscribed on the front below the Curta name. I
looked up Brett Huggins and was surprised at how many people there are in
the world with that name. In addition to the serial number the bottom of the calculator is stamped Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, System Curt Herzstark. Case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. The inside of the case has original pads top and bottom to protect the device.
The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's.
They are at times used in road rallies and other applications but they are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history these days. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were made. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1095.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Serial # 79405 Type I Calculator This Type I Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates smoothly and flawlessly.
It shows no signs of use. It is as close to minty nice as one could ask for. The previous owner bought it new
in the 1970s, and then bought one of those new electronic
handhelds before he put this into service. It has sat in a drawer, in
its original box, for the last 50 some years. The serial # on this Type
I Curta is 79405. The body is very nice and shows no wear or tear. The
plastic case is flawless w/ both pads. No scuffs or scratches. Also included
is original paperwork, guarantee, and outer box shown.The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark during World War II while imprisoned in a German concentration camp. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's and collectible shortly afterward.
In todays world they are sometimes used in road rallies and some other applications but are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were produced They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $ SOLD!!
Type
II Curta Calculator
The serial # on this
Type II Curta is
537197. This
Type II Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates smoothly and flawlessly.
The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. There are minor scuffs
on the sole, and some dirtiness to the housing above the number slides. I
did not attempt to clean it. The plastic case is nice. Also included are the 4 pieces of
original paperwork seen.The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's.
In todays world they are at times used in road rallies and some other applications but are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were made. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1350.00
Curta Type II Calculator
Serial # 529370 This Type II Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates smoothly and flawlessly.
The serial # is 529370. The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. The
metal case is nice noting the top bumper inside was missing and has been replaced
with some appropriate foam. Also included are the 2 pieces of original paperwork not shown.The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark during World War II while imprisoned in a German concentration camp. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's and collectible shortly afterward.
In todays world they are sometimes used in road rallies and some other applications but are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were produced They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1495.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type I Calculator w/ Box & Paperwork This
is one of the finest condition Type I Curta Calculators I have ever handled. It
has its original
cardboard case as well as the original guarantee card from the store it
came from, plus the 2 typical pieces of instructional paper, the manual and a quick start
guide one finds. It shows little if any wear and looks to have seen little if any use.
It operates
flawlessly. This Type I Curta calculator has serial number 46797. The cardboard box has a label with the same number. The paperwork indicates it was first sold in the early 1960s. There are sites online that are devoted to the science of dating these where one can determine a more precise production date. The outer case is metal and both pads are present. On the bottom of the calculator is written "Type I No 46797 Made in Liechtenstein Customs Union with Switzerland, by Contina LTD Mauren, System Curt Herzstark,
The Curta Calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II and was the calculator of choice before the advent of electronic calculators ended their run in that sense and they became a much sought after collectible of today.
Fine. . . . . $1100.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type I Calculator This
Curta Type I calculator is in good condition and operates properly
Scuffs on the bottom plate. This Type I Curta calculator has serial number 64042. There are sites online that are devoted to the science of dating these where one can determine the production date. The outer case is plastic and good noting the bottom foam pad has been replaced.
The Curta Calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is says "Type I No 64042 Made in Liechtenstein Customs Union with Switzerland, by Contina LTD Mauren, System Curt Herzstark,
Good . . . . . $725.00 SOLD!!
Type
I Curta Calculator
The serial # on this Type 1 Curta is
58752. This Type I Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates
flawlessly. The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. There are
minor scuffs and losses on the outer metal case. In addition to the serial number the bottom of the calculator is stamped Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, System Curt Herzstark. Case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. The inside of the case has original pads top and bottom to protect the device.
The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's. In todays world they are at times used in road rallies and other applications but they are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. The last examples were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1000.00 SOLD!!
Type
II Curta Calculator
The serial # on this Type
II Curta is 520722. This
Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates flawlessly.
The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. The outer metal case
is marked Blackett the original owners name.In addition to the serial number the bottom is stamped Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, System Curt Herzstark. Case dimensions are approximately 5" tall by 2 3/4" diameter. The inside of the case has original pads top and bottom to protect the device.
Curt Herzstark developed the idea while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator in the 70's which made them obsolete.
In todays world they are at times used in road rallies, and other applications, but they are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. The last examples were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. Curta Calculators are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1450.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type II Calculator This
Curta Type II calculator is in fine condition and operates flawlessly.
Minor scuffs on the bottom plate. The
Curta calculator was the most popular unit available right up till hand held electronic
models were offered in the early 70's. They became about obsolete
but highly collectible look back into the past after that.This Type II Curta calculator has serial number 552801 which would date it from a few years before the end of their production. There are sites online that are devoted to the science of dating these where one can narrow the date down. The outer case is plastic and good noting the foam pads have gone missing.
The Curta Calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is says "Type II No 552801 Made in Liechtenstein Customs Union with Switzerland, by Contina LTD Mauren, System Curt Herzstark,
Fine . . . . . $1095.00 SOLD!!
Curta Type II Calculator # 558022
This is a very nice Type II Curta calculator. The serial number 558022. It is a
later model and has the two tone color scheme on the body. The
original fold out instruction sheet and manual show some typical wear. They are dated 1974. Cosmetically this Curta is very nice
with some minor scuffs on the bottom. It functions smoothly and flawlessly. The black plastic case with its
rubber bumpers is in great condition as well.The main difference between a Type 1 & 2 are the number of places it has. The type II Curta has a larger capacity than the type 1, with 11 columns that carry out to 15 places. It is pretty incredible that they were able to get all that capacity and capability to fit into the palm of a users hand. Both types were both being offered simultaneously although the Type 1 was introduced first a few years before the Type 2 came to market.
The Curta calculator is one of the most interesting designs of manual calculators ever designed. Before the advent of hand held electronic calculators they were
cutting edge technology and the final word in mechanical
calculators.The introduction of the
hand held electronic calculator ended the Curtas reign as the calculator of choice for use, and began it
accent into the realm of one of the most sought after collectible
calculating devices. These devices were first invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is the manufacturer info, and it says Made in Liechtenstein, (Customs Union with Switzerland.) by Contina LTD. Mauren System Curt Herzstark. The black plastic case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. Inside of the black plastic case has both foam pads to protect the device.
Fine . . . . . $1295.00 SOLD!!
Curta Type II Calculator # 525210
w/ Box & Paperwork
This is a very nice Type II Curta calculator. The serial number
is 525210. It comes in the original cardboard box and associated paperwork. The
original fold out instruction sheet and manual are nice. The box shows
age. The type II Curta has a larger capacity than the type 1, with 11 columns that carry out to 15 places. It is pretty incredible that they were able to get all that capacity and capability to fit into the palm of a users hand. Before the advent of hand held electronic calculators Curtas were cutting edge technology and the final word in mechanical calculators. These devices were first invented by Carl Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is the manufacturer info Made in Liechtenstein, (Customs Union with Switzerland.) by Contina LTD. Mauren System Curt Herzstark.
All aspects of this Curta are very nice. It functions smoothly and flawlessly. The black metal case with its rubber bumpers is in great condition. The black metal case measures approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. The case has both foam pads to protect the device.
The Curta calculator is one of the most interesting designs of manual calculators ever designed. The introduction of the hand held electronic calculator ended the Curtas reign as the calculator of choice for use, and began it accent into the realm of one of the most sought after of collectible calculating devices. The end of an era!!
Fine . . . . . $1695.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type 2 Calculator This Curta calculator is in super condition, and operates flawlessly.
Inside of case has both foam pads to protect the device. The
Curta was the most popular unit available right up till hand held electronic
models were offered in the early 70's. They became an obsolete
but highly piece of calculation history after that.This Type II Curta calculator has serial number 553456 which would date it from a few years before the end of their production. There are sites online that are devoted to the science of dating these where one can narrow it down.
The Curta Calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is says "Type II No 553456 Made in Liechtenstein Customs Union with Switzerland, by Contina LTD Mauren, System Curt Herzstark, Inside of case has both foam pads to protect the device. Also included is an original paperwork.
Fine . . . . . $1250.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type 1 Calculator This interesting
design calculator is in super condition, and operates flawlessly. This Type
1 Curta calculator has serial number 64194 which would date it from
near the end of their production. There are sites online that are
devoted to the science of dating these. The Curta Calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is says "System Curt Herzstark, Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, Type 1 No 64194. Case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. Inside of case has both foam pads to protect the device. Also included is an original instruction sheet that was provided with it.
Fine . . . . . $1050.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type 2 Calculator w/ Leather Carrier This
interesting calculator is in super condition, and operates flawlessly. The
Curta was the most popular unit available right up till hand held electronic
models were offered in the early 70's. They became an obsolete
but highly collectible look back into the past after that.
This Type II
Curta calculator has serial number 547782 which would date it from a few
years before the end of their production. There are sites online that are
devoted to the science of dating these where one can narrow it down. The
outer case has a Lietz decal, and the leather case typically indicates it
was being used by a surveyor or engineer in the field. The leather case is
nice noting the snap closer no longer works.
The Curta Calculator was
invented by Curt Herzstark
while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the
bottom of the calculator is says "Type II No 547782 Made in
Liechtenstein Customs Union with Switzerland, by Contina LTD Mauren, System Curt Herzstark, Inside of case has both foam pads to protect
the device. Also included is an original paperwork.
Fine . . . . . $1250.00 SOLD!!
Serial # 77040 Type 1 Curta
Calculator This Curta is in very nice overall condition.
All sliders go up and down smoothly. It will zero out. The add /
Subtract lever moves easily. The
black finish is near perfect and shows minimal wear. The serial #
is 77040 dating it near the end of commercial production
in the early 70's. On the bottom of the calculator it says Made in Liechtenstein,
by Contina AG Mauren, No 77040. The outer plastic case is nice
with original pads and its dimensions are approximately 4
5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. It also has the seldom seen
outer leather case which is typically associated with use in the field. The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator in the 70's essentially made them obsolete. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were made. In todays world they are also used in road rallies and other similar applications. A highly collectible piece of calculation history.
Fine . . . . . $950.00 SOLD!!
Type
2 Curta Calculator w/ Leather Outer Case The serial # on this
two tone Type II Curta is 550769. That would date it from the mid 1950's a few years after the Type 2 Curta was
introduced. The bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren. The Curta calculator was first developed or conceived / invented by Carl Herzstark while imprisoned in a
German concentration camp during World War II. This 2 tone Curta comes with 2 pieces of original paperwork. The condition of it, the black plastic case, the outer leather case, and the paperwork are all excellent. It operates smoothly and as it should. It adds, carries, zeroes out, the sliders are free and smooth, etc. The subtraction lever works. A very nice early Curta in its original plastic case that will make for a good user for car rallies or other applications. Curta Calculators are a must have for any collection concerned with the history of Calculation and how it has progressed. They were the last and best mechanical calculator made before the advent of electronic handhelds relegated them to collectible status. A classic!!
Good + . . . . . $1250.00 SOLD!!
Early # 13090 Curta
Type 1 Calculator It is in very nice cosmetic condition but does have jamming
issues. All sliders go up and down smoothly. It will zero out. The add / Subtract lever moves.It does
hang up / jam when asking it to do repeated calcs. It will loosen up with
gentle movements to allow it to be zeroed out. It is being sold as is, and in need of repair, or servicing.The black finish is near perfect and shows minimal wear on the bottom or elsewhere. The serial # is 13090 dating this from approx. 1951 just a few years after commercial production began. On the bottom of the calculator it says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, No 13090. The side has a distributer / owner stamp from South Africa. It says Suttner's, Sole Agent in Johannesburg SA. Other examples with this marking have been found. The outer metal case is nice and its dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter.
The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator in the 70's essentially made them obsolete. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were made. In todays world they are also used in road rallies and other similar applications. A highly collectible piece of calculation history.
Fair . . . . . $450.00 SOLD!!
Type 1 Curta Calculator Metal Case The serial # on this
Type I Curta is 21403. The bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren.
The Curta calculator was first developed or conceived / invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a
German concentration camp during World War II. The cosmetic condition is great, but it is inoperable and jammed up. The slides go up and down, but the top collar at times will not raise, and it will not crank properly. It was forced at some point as the anti reverse feature is not always in place. In other words it will crank a bit in reverse which it should never do. My experience says that means the pins at the top are damaged and bent. I did not go inside to confirm that on this one, but that was what the situation with the last one I had that operated like this one. It is being sold as is and in need of attention.
Fair . . . . . $350.00 SOLD!!
Type
2 Curta Calculator
The serial # on this early Type II Curta is 539904. That would date
it from the mid 1950's a few years after the Type 2 Curta was
introduced. The bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein,
by Contina AG Mauren.
The Curta calculator was first developed or conceived / invented by Carl Herzstark while imprisoned in a
German concentration camp during World War II. This 2 tone Curta comes with 2 pieces of original paperwork. The condition of it, the case, and the paper are all excellent. It operates smoothly and as it should.. It adds, carries, zeroes out, the sliders are free and smooth, etc. A very nice early Curta in its original plastic case that will make for a good user for car rallies or other applications. Curta Calculators are a must have for any collection concerned with the history of Calculation and how it has progressed. A classic!!
Good + . . . . . $995.00 SOLD!!
Type
1 Curta Calculator w/ Leather Covered Case
The serial # on this early Type 1 Curta is 31687. That would date this from the mid 1950's, a few years
after production began. I also see that the serial # is a prime number
for what that is worth. On the bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, No 31687. Case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. The inside of the case has both foam pads to protect the device The outer metal case is covered in tightly sewn leather. I have seen these in separate leather cases for field work, but have never seen one like this with the original case covered in sewn leather.
The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator essentially made them obsolete in the 70's. The last ones were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. Today they are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and are an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things. In todays world they are also used in road rallies and other applications.
This example is in excellent condition and operates flawlessly. The body is very nice and shows no wear or tear. There are minor scuffs and losses in the leather cover on the outer metal case. The provenance I can offer is that this example came from Mexico.
Good + . . . . . $695.00 SOLD!!
Type
2 Curta Calculator w/ Case The
serial # on this Type 2 Curta is 508586. That would date this from the
mid 50's. The last examples were made up until about 1970 and all
told about 150,00 both Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. The
Type 2 Curta was introduced shortly after the Type 1, and is basically the
same design machine w/ a larger capacity.This Curta Calculator has issues and is being sold as is. It jams up, and the crank works sometimes, sometimes not. The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. The outer case is metal and has minor scuffs. The bottom of the calculator is stamped Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, System Curt Herzstark along with the serial number.
The CurCurt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's and collectible shortly afterward. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history, and an important example of how calculation technology has advanced.
FAIR / TBR . . . . . $295.00 SOLD!!
Curta Type 2 Calculator
This interesting design and very collectible calculator is in super
condition. This Curta calculator is a type 2 serial number 549881.
These devices were first invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned
in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator
is the manufacturer info, and it says Made in Liechtenstein, (Customs
Union with Switzerland.) by Contina LTD. Mauren System Curt Herzstark.
There is a Lietz sticker on the side, and this indicates that they were the
distributor of this example. The black plastic case dimensions are approximately
4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. Inside of the black plastic case has both foam
pads to protect the device. This one also includes the rare and unusual
leather carry case for field work. It is in excellent condition, and has
seen little use. The type two has a larger capacity than the type1 and
has 11 columns that carry out to 15 places. The operation is flawless.
These were the tool of choice just before the introduction of the electronic
handhelds came onto the market. The end of an era!!
Good . . . . . $1250.00 SOLD
Curta Type 2 Calculator
This Curta calculator
is in super condition. The lietz tag is from the distributer.
The condition is like new.Good + . . . . . $950.00 SOLD
Type
2 Curta Calculator
The serial # on this early Type II Curta is 505262. That would date
it from late 1954, the second year the Type 2
Curta was offered. The bottom of the calculator says Made in Liechtenstein,
by Contina AG Mauren. The Curta calculator was first developed or conceived
/ invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a
German concentration camp during World War II.
This Curta operates as it should. It adds, carries, zeroes out,
the sliders are free and smooth, etc. There is one small nick in the
aluminum case bottom as I have shown. A nice early Curta in its original metal
case that will make for a good user for car rallies or other applications.
Curta Calculators are a must have for any collection concerned with the history of
calculation
and how it has progressed. A classic!!
Good + . . . . . $795.00 SOLD!!
Curta
Type 1 Calculator This interesting design
calculator is in super condition, and operates flawlessly. This rare
Curta calculator type 1, serial number 47288. was invented by Curt Herzstark
while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the
bottom of the calculator is says "System Curt Herzstark, Made in Liechtenstein,
by Contina AG Mauren, Type 1 No 47288. Case dimensions are approximately
4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. Inside of case has both foam pads to protect
the device. Also included are a copy of an instruction sheet that
was provided with it.
Good . . . . $995.00 SOLD
Curta
Type 1 Calculator (FIRST MODEL)
This is a very early and very rare first model
Type
1 Curta calculator. The serial number is 5714. That would
date this within the first couple of years of manufacture back in the late 40's. This
unusual calculator is in excellent condition, fully operational, and shows little sign of either use or abuse, just
a few storage dings on the outer case. The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, No 5714. Case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. The inside of the case has both foam pads to protect the device although the upper foam button has deteriorated a bit.
This interesting design calculator was the top of the line and immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator essentially made them obsolete in the 70's. The last ones were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. Today they are highly collectible pieces, and are an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
This example is in excellent condition and operates flawlessly. The body is very nice and shows no wear or tear and there are just a few minor scuffs on the outer metal case. Note the design of the column levers and how they are different from later examples. The provenance I can offer is that this example came from Brazil and a college professor there was given it by a architect / engineer back in the 50's and it has sat in a drawer since then.
Excellent . . . . . $1495.00 SOLD!
Curta Type 2 Calculator
This is a very nice Type 2 Curta calculator. The serial number 536760. It is a
later model and has the two tone color scheme on the body. The main
difference between a Type 1 & 2 are the number of places it has. They
were both being offered simultaneously although the Type 1 was
introduced first a few years before the Type 2 came to market. Cosmetically this Curta is as nice as one could hope for. It functions smoothly and flawlessly. The black plastic case with its rubber bumpers is in great condition as well. The original fold out instruction sheet and manual show some use, but are nice as well.
This Curta calculator is one of the most interesting designs of manual calculators ever designed or offered. Before the advent of hand held electronic calculators they were cutting edge technology and the final word in mechanical calculators. It is pretty incredible that they were able to get all that capability to fit into the palm of
a users hand. The introduction of the hand held electronic calculator
though ended it reign as the calculator of choice for use, and began it
accent into the realm of one of the most sought after of collectible
calculating devices. These vintage calculators are very collectible
now, and are getting harder and harder to find. These devices were first invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. On the bottom of the calculator is the manufacturer info, and it says Made in Liechtenstein, (Customs Union with Switzerland.) by Contina LTD. Mauren System Curt Herzstark. The black plastic case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. Inside of the black plastic case has both foam pads to protect the device. The type two Curta has a larger capacity than the type1 and has 11 columns that carry out to 15 places. The end of an era!!
Excellent . . . . . $1095.00 SOLD!
Curta Calculator Type
II No. 543729
The serial # on this Type II Curta is 543729. This
Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates smoothly and
flawlessly. The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. The plastic case is nice.The Curta calculator was invented or developed by Carl Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's.
In todays world they are at times used in road rallies and some other applications but are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were made. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history today, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1750.00 SOLD!!
Type
2 Curta Calculator
The serial # of this late model two-tone Type II Curta is 528335. That would date
it from the early 1960's. The Curta calculator was the
top of the line calculator in its day and
was immensely popular before the handheld
electronic calculator essentially made them obsolete in the 70's. The last
Curta Calculators were made about 1970 and
all told about 150,00 Type #1 & Type #2 models were made. On the
bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren.
The Curta calculator was invented by Curt Herzstark while imprisoned in a
German concentration camp during World War II. This example is in good cosmetic condition but operation is spotty. It will zero out but at least one of the number slides is stuck, and the operation is erratic seemingly working at times, and then jamming up and become hard to operate before settling into a position where it can be zeroed again. I am not sure if this means it needs to be repaired, or just cleaned and adjusted. There is no case.
Good - . . . . .$395.00 SOLD!!
Type
1 Curta Calculator
The serial # on this early Type I Curta is 21483. That would date this from the 1953
just a few years after Curta calculators were first introduced to the market.
The bottom of the calculator is marked Made in Liechtenstein,
by Contina AG Mauren. The Curta calculator was first developed / conceived /
invented by Curt Herzstark
while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II.
They were
put into production shortly after the WWII ended. This example is in super cosmetic condition, but does not operate properly and is jammed up. In addition to the top ring not wanting to revolve, some of the number slide controls are stuck It must have happened early on and the owner simply put it back as it is still in its original metal case and original cardboard box with 3 pieces of original paperwork. The condition seems nice enough that this example would warrant the cost of a repair / inspection by one of the Curta repair places that can be found on the internet.
Good - . . . . .$500.00 SOLD!!
Type
1 Curta Calculator w/ Metal Case & Original Paper
The serial # on this early Type1 Curta is 15087. That would date this from the early 1950's according to the latest
dating chart available online.
That would be just a few years after production began in 1947. On the bottom of the calculator is says Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina AG Mauren, No 15087. Case dimensions are approximately 4 5/8" tall by 2 1/4" diameter. The inside of the case has both foam pads to protect the device when stored. The outer metal case is in fine condition.
This example is in excellent operating and cosmetic condition. It operates flawlessly. The body is very nice and shows no wear or tear. It comes with the original paper work shown, and it is stamped with the same serial number. Very Nice!!
Good + . . . . .$995.00 SOLD!
Curta
Calculator Type
II No. 557878 The serial # on this
Type II Curta is
557878. This
Type II Curta Calculator is in excellent condition and operates smoothly and flawlessly.
The body is very nice and shows minimal wear or tear. There are minor scuffs
on the sole. The plastic case is nice.The Curta calculator was invented or developed by Carl Herzstark while imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. This interesting design calculator was the top of the line manual calculator in its day and was immensely popular before the advent of the handheld electronic calculator which essentially made them obsolete in the 70's.
In todays world they are at times used in road rallies and some other applications but are worth more as collectibles and examples of calculation history. They were made up until about 1970 and all told about 150,00 both Type 1 & Type 2 models were made. They are highly collectible pieces of calculation history today, and an important example of calculation technology in the scheme of things.
Fine . . . . . $1750.00 SOLD!!
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