Antique & Vintage
Slide Rules & Calculators

This is just a sample of the many antique calculation devices we have sold.
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Special Note Concerning Prices Seen Below:
Most prices seen reflect actual sale results from this website.
Prices seen are relatively recent or pieces that have held their value and reflect what I believe to be current values.
On other pieces you will see no price, or a price range, with or without an explanation.  The reasons for that are discussed on the FAQ page.

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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 in an attempt to finalize the sale of this Fardoil adder with my partner I am going to offer a full or partial interest in my 1/2 ownership in this rare 18th c. Fardoil adder for a nominal sum to the right person or entity who can facilitate a sale with my partner.

Here is the history of this piece---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 reached a sale price of approx. $70,000 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 $70,000 or so.

This Fardoil adder is one of only two known, and this could be the only known example if it is the very same Fardoil adder that the French Musee des Arts et Metiers (CNAM), the French State Museum, and their representatives claimed was "lost", stolen, or otherwise disappeared from their collection when it was on display in the US during 1939 New York World's Fair.

At the Breker auction some 10 years ago the high bidder for this Fardoil Adder was Professor Korte from the University of Bonn, who was 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 when it was subsequently offered to him.

The two Fardoil pieces were then returned to the consignors---myself and the other 1/2 owner, who is 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 endeavors involving technology-related antiques prior to having a falling out. Our friendship ended one day when Peter, in a fit of rage, over a situation concerning an antique sewing machine which I had paid for that we were 50 / 50 partners on, entered into an agreement with a 3rd party, offering him 50% to sell it---thus making me a 25% junior partner. Peter did that without consulting or discussing that decision with me. When I questioned his decision he got insulted and declared we were no longer friends and said our partnership was over. This was after we had already purchased the Fardoil Adder. There is more to this story that is irrelevant to this sale that does not need to be retold here.

But what should be told is the story of who first found the Fardoil adder---that would be me---and details surrounding that event, and the Breker auction. The Fardoil sellers, who lived in NY, contacted me and I made an appointment to go see it. They told me that the adder had been "found" in New York, and their now deceased family member had been a caretaker / custodian / groundskeeper / employee and "found" it where he worked. The family told me they had had it appraised at Sotheby's or Christies auction house for 5K, and I offered to purchase it from them 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 and enlisted Peter 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 too failed to produce a sale over the price. Later the CNAM made a relatively low offer, not to purchase it, but rather as compensation for us having found it and returning it. That offer was rejected. Peter made several other attempts to sell it but failed to find a buyer.

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 precious ring in the Lord of the Rings story. Peter, despite saying he was ready to sell, and that he wanted to sell it, and acknowledging that I am his 50 /50 partner on it, could not bear to let the Fardoil go, and has refused to let 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 or partial interest.

The attempts for Peter and I to settle up on the Fardoil after the failed auction should also be told, again so that potential parties interested in buying into my 1/2 share are fully informed and can better formulate a plan to finalize the sale.

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:

Immediately 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. Problem is he was not negotiating with anyone at the time.

Shortly after Peter ended our relationship 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 soon 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 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 $70K it had reached at the Breker auction, approx. half of what we would have been 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 take on a partner or sell our 1/2 interest in the Fardoil. Our hope is that a qualified and interested 3rd party with a new or different approach 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 is my proposal. One option would be to purchase my 1/2 share ownership in it's entirety for some agreed to amount. That can be outright, or over time with the details to be worked out. Since that is probably over-optimistic given the situation, I do have a alternative idea to present.

The second option would be to purchase a portion of my 1/2 share for a small upfront investment. In other words with a reasonable buy-in I will agree to split the proceeds of the final sale of the Fardiol with my new partner for a very small initial investment. This would require a qualified and acceptable individual, or entity, with a plan or concept of a plan, and the ability, to force a sale of the Fardoil.

I am thinking the initial investment would be something on the order of $100 in return for the right to a minimum of 25% of the total sale price---50% of my share of any final sale. The potential return could be enormous. A reasonable expectation could be, using the Breker auction result of 70K, a payout amount somewhere in the $18K range for each of us.

If the Breker sale price had in fact been held down because of the French interference, the payout could be far more if the Fardoil was again sent to auction and brings more than the $70K it brought the first time it sold. Or some uber-wealthy party might pay even more in a private sale.

Or you may be able to get Peter to agree to sell his half-interest to you and gain full ownership.

Another possibility is the French may step up with a larger offer than they first offered. Or the French could enter into this partnership and make a claim of complete ownership in court. The French could end up being declared the sole owner at little further cost.

The possibilities are many, but in any event you are going to have to have the ability to make it happen in order to pry it out of Peter's hands. We can make a gentleman's agreement to reflect this, or I will sign an acceptable agreement drawn up by the new partner or their representative. I am very flexible and very willing to work with the right person or entity to resolve this and to get the Fardoil into more appropriate hands.

This proposal to form a partnership for an interest in our half interest of 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

Fullers Computing Telegraph Calculator w/  Palmers Computing Scales  It is no wonder that America was the leading power during the industrial revolution.  They had people designing, patenting, and introducing calculation devices like this one.  This unusual calculation device  was light years ahead of the competition and probably led to the  introduction of many other new products and ideas.  The Palmer scale says it was first patented in the 1840's, and I guess after Mr. Fuller improved on it he included it with his own version of a circular slide rule.  Luckily he had the foresight to include with it a booklet of operating instructions   The opening blurb in the instructions claims this is "The Great Master Key Rule by Which All Problems are Instantly Solved.   I am not really sure if it could have solved Bernie Madolf's problems.  

The entire package is in very nice condition, and they are rarely seen in this nice condition any more.

Excellent  . . . . .$795.00        SOLD!

Poor's Line of Position Navigation Computer  This is a rare and interesting navigation related calculator. There are a couple of references on Google about it lamenting the fact that so few are known, and that only pictures of it can be found in a book by the inventor Charles Poor.   The face is marked Pat applied for, and it is not known if one was ever granted

This calculator is in like new condition with it original box.  The box has seen better days and the corners are torn and weak.  The instrument measures approx 12" dia. and the base is cast aluminum.  The instructions are present and in very nice condition.  It says it is a mechanical navigator for use on ships or aircraft.  At the bottom in addition to the inventor designers name, the name T.S. & J. D. Negus is given as the seller.  This was a well known outfit that dealt in all manner of navigational and nautical related devices.

Good+  . . . . $1295.00        SOLD!

Stanley Fuller / London England / Spiral Calculator / Sliderule This Stanley Fullers Spiral Calculator / Slide rule is in nice condition. This is an example of a calculator that is getting harder and harder to find.  They were first introduced in the 1880's.  At first they were made and offered by Stanley of London a well known firm that also made the famous Thatcher calculator, and other surveying or engineering related instruments.  Later on K & E bought the rights and offered them until the end of production in the early 70's.

The serial #'s numbers on the brass scale are 6900 -37.  I believe that indicates it was made in 1937.  It has the brass external mount feature so that the slide rule can mount  for use on the outside of the box, but the mounting bracket itself is missing.  The box is pretty nice, and  is mahogany. It has a finger joint design in the corners.  It has a nice green Stanley label inside the top.  It is in overall good condition noting the remnants of another label or sticker on the outside top.

The inner scales are very nice.  It has the typical scales and charts found on these type one model calculators, and the outer scale has the typical light brown tint to it.   The scales, both in and out are in very nice condition noting just a few minor dings.  The short pointer is marked Fuller Calculator, and Made in England.  The long cursor in addition to having the date and serial number is graduated along one edge.  A nice piece in outstanding condition.

Good + . . . . . $300 - $500         SOLD!! 

Fuller Spiral Slide Rule / Calculator   The condition of this Fuller slide rule is like new / mint and came from the original owner.  These slide rules were produced in England by the W. F. Stanley Co.  The Fuller Circular slide rule was first developed and introduced in the 1870's. 

The serial # on this unusual circular drum style slide rule is 13643 /70 dating it from 1970 and very close to the end of their production nearly 100 years later.  It has been suggested in online write-ups that no more than 14,000 were made during their entire production span.  Production of this slide rule was very limited by this period and this example is one of the last few hundred made when production ceased in the early 1970's.    There were several different models produced and offered over the years.  This style would be referred to as the type 1.  Over the course of production different US companies like K & E and Dietzgen offered this rule as part of their line.  This one is just marked Stanley / England. 

The mahogany box is like new.  The original instructions are included.  The top and bottom of the rule are Bakelite and chip, crack or damage free.  The brass rod to mount it to the box for convenient use is present.  This rule is essentially new and unused.  It will make for a great addition and marks the end of an era with the introduction of electronic calculators which made the obsolete and yet created a fine collectible.   A classic!!

Fine +  . . . . . SOLD!

Fuller Spiral Calculator by Stanley   This is an earlier model than the one above.  It does not have the external mount like the one above as the earliest models did not offer that feature.  The number on the brass scale is 109 and that number is repeated on the base of the scale.  I assume that is the serial # which would date this pretty early in the scheme of things.    There are no tears to the scales and they are pretty nice on both the inner and outer drum.   There is some very minor spotting to the scales, but the overall condition is very nice.  There is a tight crack in the box top as can be seen, and there is an early repair to it that adds a degree of character to this interesting and early calculator.   A nice piece in overall very nice condition.

Good . . . . .  SOLD

Stanley Fuller Spiral Calculator / Sliderule This is a super nice condition example.  The numbers on the brass scale are 5968 -28.   I am not sure where that would put this date wise, but it is an later model with the brass mount feature that the slide rule can mount to for use.  There is a hairline crack as can be seen in one of the pics in the wood frame, but it is just a line in the wood.  There is no damage, movement, or looseness.  The instructions are included as well.  The John Davies label inside the lid must be from the distributer, who specialized in Mining supplies as well as surveying instruments and more.  That label mentions 1933, but it is unclear in what regard.  A nice piece in outstanding condition.

Excellent . . . . . SOLD!

Stanley Type 2 Fuller Spiral Calculator / Sliderule This is a  nice condition example of a very hard to find variation of a Fuller / Stanley slide rule calculator.  The numbers on the brass scale are 5836 -27.   I believe that would date it from 1927.  The finger joint mahogany wooden box has a Stanley paper label in the top, as well as a tag, from I assume, the factory it was being used in.  I am not sure what the name of that company was, but the tag says it is from the aircraft division and 54 over 14690.  The box is OK noting one latch is missing, and there are some paint spots on the top.  It does have the mounting bracket on the end of the box, and the proper bracket to mount this calculator is in the box. 

As for the rule itself, the scales are pretty nice with just a few small dings here and the typical yellowing the paper scales develop.  There is a hairline crack in the top wooden donut as can be seen in one of the pics.  It is just a line in the wood,  there is no damage, movement, or looseness.   There is also some minor staining, dirt and chipping of the paper at the top and bottom of the outer cylinder. The short pointer is marked Fuller Calculator with Scales of Sines & Logs Made in England.  This is what makes this model so unusual.   One can see the difference immediately on the inner scale as there are none of the typical tables or equations usually seen.  This inner scale is made up of 2 sets of scales from top to bottom.  A rare piece in nice condition.

Good + . . . . . SOLD! 

Gordon's Addometer / Calculator  This is an interesting, early, and rare adder.  It is marked on the inside ring "Gordon's Addometer / Patent Applied For".  The circular body is made of Gutta Percha type plastic material.  There is a  crack in it from shrinkage.  It is stable and the calculating rings can still be rotated.   The cover is a nickel plated non- magnetic material like brass.  I believe unusual circular adder dates from the last quarter of the 19th century, and perhaps as late as the turn of the century.

A Google search turns up just one reference for the Gordon Addometer from a German site listing the name but there is no patent info or other info at that site.  Most Addometers are much later than this and there is plenty of info on those.  A Google Patent search turns up nothing for Gordon Addometer.  I tried for over an hour to find something similar and  I looked at a lot of other devices called addometers and perhaps the reason is that this design was an infringement and was never granted a Patent.  I am not sure.

I do have a bit more information from the owner.  This is one of just 4 of these that was found in an attic in New York near the New Jersey border about 20 years ago.  The parties in that original transaction surmised that the inventor had just a few of these made as pre-promotional examples, but that something then transpired that stopped the patent process and any further manufacture or development.  When these were found two were sold privately, and one was placed in the German Breker Technology Auction, where it sold in the 4K range.  This is the last one that remains, and when this one goes that is the end of them. 

Opportunity knocks.

Good . . . . .$3250.00         SOLD

Loga Drum Calculator / Sliderule   This large cylindrical slide rule / calculator is a Swiss idea that was produced just after the turn of the century up until about 1920.  They came in a few different configurations and with different bases or covers.  This ones instructions are missing, but the rule is otherwise pretty nice.  The cover has a couple dents in it, but is OK.   It measures approx 18" long and I believe is the largest model offered. 

Good+  . . . . .$795.00        SOLD!

Loga Drum Calculator / Sliderule   This large cylindrical slide rule / calculator is a Swiss idea that was produced just after the turn of the century up until about 1920.  They came in a few different configurations and with different bases or covers.  Note in the other pics how it is able to swing up to be like a Fuller.  This one has a set of instructions on the base and a second revolving reference / information area as seen in the bottom pic.  

Good+  . . . . .$1295.00        SOLD!

The Locke Adder This unusual sliding bar adder was patented in Kensett Iowa in 1904. This is kind of late in the scheme of things as far as the design of calculators and adders was progressing, and probably helps explain its relative scarcity as it probably was not very popular and seemed dated to potential buyers it was offered to. This example is in Good- condition with some paint loss to the body. The slides all function as they should. An interesting piece that clearly demonstrates just how far we have come.

Good . . . . .$395.00         SOLD

The Universal Adder Patented July 15th 1890  This unusual sliding bar adder according to the info on the front case was patented in England France Germany and Canada as well as the US on the date found on the left side of the case.  It was a well done and interesting design, with a window in the back of the unit to view the current result.  The body is made of some sort o early plastic / gutta perch a type material, and it has warped somewhat over the years, making sliding some of the scales a bit difficult to achieve.  Overall the condition is very nice otherwise.  There is also remains of a label and instructions on the back side as can be seen in the second picture.

Good . . . . .$695.00         SOLD

"Simplicitas" Addizonartrice  Despite its name "Simplicitas" this adder is anything but simple and is as complicated an adding machine as I have ever seen before.  And I should note, I have never seen this one before,  and can find no mention of it running searches on the internet or visiting several sites I know of that cover these pieces.   

As can be seen it has 9 dials mounted on a nicely finished wooden board.  It measures approx 22" long overall.  It comes in the original fabric / faux leatherette case.  Note there is one small ding in the top right corner of the back board.  Overall it is very nice though. It has its original bone or ivory pointer as well.

The layout, with a single dial to the left, and then a group of 3, and then a group of 5 with 2 above 3, must mean something, to someone, but is beyond my reasoning capabilities.  On top of that, each dial has 3 scales.  1-9 on the outside,  then another 2 different scales under the wheel with one going into at least double digits.  All of the dials are independent of each other and do not carry from one to the next. We need the instruction manual for this one, or you can spend a few minutes figuring it out.

Good . . . . .$1495.00         SOLD

Fowler Type H Calculator  Fowler is a well known English name in circular sliderules / calculators.  This Fowler pocket watch style calculator is in super like new condition.  The original instructions are nice and included.  The outer box is tattered.  There is a small piece of plastic that was used as a magnifier.  A very nice example.

Good . . . . . $295.00        SOLD

The Hart Calculator or Equationor  I can barely use some of the simple examples of these calculating marvels from an earlier time that I have had,  and I routinely use to flunk most of the math courses that I had to take in school,  but there must be a latent gene that drives the quest as I cannot seem to stop buying these sort of things.  Vintage calculators, slide rules, and other calculation devices are still available and it is always fun to find a different one while on the hunt.

SOLD






Millionaire Calculator - Calculating Machine  The idea for the Millionaire Calculator design was first patented in 1892 by Otto Steiger of Munich Germany. Steiger's design was later improved upon by Hans W. Egli of Zurich Switzerland. The tag on the left side of this example has the Egli name. This example is also marked with two US patent dates from 1895. Production of the Millionaire Calculator began in 1893 and ended in 1935. A total of about five thousand were manufactured. From the serial # 1633 we can assume this example dates from just after the turn of the century. There is an online registry for these calculating machines found at John Wolff's Web Museum / Register of Millionaire Calculators. He has a number of examples listed, (over 200) and many examples are pictured there.

The Millionaire calculator was the first commercially successful mechanical calculator that could perform direct multiplication. Other calculating machines of the period were adding machines that accomplished multiplication by preforming addition calcs over and over. A much slower process. This aspect of the design is explained in great detail at the www.history-computer.com site. The tag on the left indicates this example was sold here in the US. The tag reads W. A. Morschhauser Sole Agent Madison Ave New York City. I read these machines retailed for between $475.00 and $1100.00 at the time of manufacture. A huge sum for the time.

Note the exceptional condition. This Antique Millionaire Calculator shows very little signs of use and mainly just storage scuffs. This is the less common metal case model. The Millionaire Calculator also came in wooden cases. Overall It is in very nice condition with typical scratches. On the interior, the areas under the swinging arms still have nearly all of the original black finish. Many examples you can view online show considerable wear in these areas. It is a large and heavy machine. The measurements are approx. 7 1/4" x 25 5/8" x 11 1/4". It weighs close to 70 lbs. and is the 8 column model.  They could be had in larger sizes with up to 12 columns. A rare opportunity to own a piece of calculation history. Recommended.  

Fine . . . . . $2450.00        SOLD!!

The Calcumeter    This is the smallest 5 place model of this patented adder.  These are 10 times harder to find than the larger models.  It is in very nice condition noting one bent corner.

Good . . . . .$195.00         SOLD

Percentage Calculator   These are usually associated with stores where the operator was trying to figure out his profit or discount to be given.  This one is Tole Painted and probably dates from just after the turn of the century from the look of it.

Good+ . . . . .$125.00         SOLD

1st Model Webb Patent Adder  The Webb Patent Adding Machine came in 2 different models with this the brass version mounted on a mahogany board the first and earliest model.  Later versions were brass that was nickel plated.   This is properly marked with the patent date, and the serial #. 

Good . . . . .$895.00         SOLD

1st Model Comptometer / Adding Machine  The Comptometer was a huge success and the later models are considered quite common.  These earlier version in the wooden case are quite hard to find, and entire websites have been set up to provide, and gather information about them.  There is a site where you can register early ones like this, and just a fraction of those made have been documented.   This is a nice one and an opportunity not to be missed.

Good . . . . .$2495.00          SOLD

"Small" Pocket Calculator / Slide Rule  This unusual  slide rule / calculator was patented, but there was only one production run and few of those were sold until a stash of them was found back in the 70's or early 80's.  That small stash was qu9ckly gobbled up and they are rarely seen now that the limited supply has been distributed.  This is a nice one.

Good +  . . . . .$695.00         SOLD

The Rapid" Calculator / Adder This is a very complicated and precision made adder / calculator.  I have only had a few over the last 20 years.  I know firsthand as my last one had a small problem carrying over, and after I got inside, and started taking it apart, I regretted it.  I am sure I voided the warranty on that one.  This example is near mint and operates just fine.  Personally though, I would buy an electronic hand held for a 1.00 and leave this one for display. 

Good+  . . . . .$295.00        SOLD!

Marchant Calculator   The Marchant Calculator company was based in Oakland Ca and began operation near the turn of the century with their non-electric pin wheel design calculators that are well known and highly collectible.  The Marchant in the Click for Pic is the black one on the right.  The condition is excellent.  The label on the back lists off all the different Patents that were designed to protect it, but Marchant is but one of the names associated with this design, so they were either selling the rights, or they were in production for a long enough time for copies to be made.   As the technology grew they moved on to electric models.  This earlier model is in very nice condition and seems to be fully operational.        

Good+  . . . . .$195.00        SOLD!

Walther Calculator   The German Walther company was best known for manufacturing weapons and pistols.  In 1926 they branched out to include a line of calculators.  The condition of this example is very nice looking but it is jammed up.

Good  . . . . .$225.00        SOLD!

"The Jeffers" Calculator   This is a very unusual and complex Agricultural related calculator.  It is in super near unused condition.  It is a wooden box that opens to reveal the calculator inside.  It measures approx 5 x7".  Inside the front door on the left side are the instructions and explanation of what you would need this for and how to use it.  Basically it is for computing just the right mixtures of feed and ingredients for livestock nutrition derived from different ratios of mixtures of different grains and meals.  Sound complicated, just try using it to see how tedious it is.    I think that pretty much explains the condition, as I would be willing to bet most of the livestock got whatever was available in the way of leftovers from the corn crop or other grain crops, and that was pretty much it.   There must be 60-70 different printed slides stored on the left which you would put into the holders on the right, and start computing the ratios, cost, weight and so forth.  I have a feeling this did not go over real big with the typical country farmer, and back then, when the farms were pretty much family owned something like this was not really needed or desired.  Perhaps today, and perhaps the Chinese should be using something like it before they add to much of whatever to the next batch of dog food, or your food.

I looked it over, and tried it out, and I can confirm it is pretty much non understandable.  That is what makes it a great collectible in the field of calculation.        

Excellent . . . . .$195.00         SOLD!!

"The Locke Adder" This unusual sliding bar adder / calculator was patented in Kensett Iowa in 1901. These unusual adding machines can be found marked with a second patent date from 1905 as well, and so I assume we can call this the first model.

This adder seems kind simplistic in the scheme of things as the design of calculators and adders had been progressing rapidly and was well advanced past this design by 1900, but I guess they had not heard that in outer Iowa and about what was going on in the rest of the world. This probably helps explain its relative scarcity as it probably was not very popular outside of that area and seemed dated to potential buyers elsewhere it was offered to. That old world view probably explains some of the goings on in Iowa today as well.

This example is in excellent condition and show little signs of wear or tear. The main body is pressed steel in a copper flash finish, and the sliding adding bars have nearly all of their original paint. The slides all function as they should. An interesting piece that clearly demonstrates just how far the field of calculation has come and how Iowa fits into the picture.

Good . . . . .$495.00        SOLD!!

1st Model Wooden Case "ShoeBox" Comptometer Adder / Calculator   The serial # on this 1st model Comptometer is 2190.  It is stamped into the metal cover over the counter area near the middle.   These early wooden case comptometers were offered beginning in 1887 and were sold through 1903.  During that period a little over 6,000 were produced.  After that the machine was cased in a metal housing.  The basic idea remained pretty much the same while going through a number of minor cosmetic changes over the years. 

There is a very informative and worthwhile site that details the history, design, operation, and other info about these machines on the internet.  It can be found at www2.cruzio.com .  This 1st Model Comptometer is listed there along with the other known wood case examples that have turned up.  Known wood case models number under 100 according to this chart.  This example came from at descendant of the original inventor / maker whose name was Felt.

All of the main keys seem to operate as they should.  There are none that are stuck. By manipulating the key strokes I can get it to zero out, but the black knob on the side which is supposed to zero it does not turn or operate.  The wooden return lever moves but does not seem to do anything.    In general when pushing the main keys it seems to carry over pretty good, except for the last column which seems to skip or overcount at times.  The main parts of the case are in Mahogany and the base appears to be a softwood like pine. The outer case is in very nice condition and looks to be original finish.  The bottom cover door is missing.   A new panel could easily be fabricated if wanted.   These wooden case comptometers only appear on the market occasionally.  Some have been known to sell in the $4000 - $6000 range, and we have this one priced to reflect the minor operational  issues mentioned above.  A rare piece that will be a welcome addition to the advanced collection of early American calculation devices

Good   . . . . .$1295.00        SOLD!!

Three Different Webb Adder / Calculators   The Webb adder was first patented near the turn of the century.  The first models were brass and mounted on a wooden board.  The next generation looked like the one on the left.  After that other versions appeared such as the Herring Calculator in the middle.  These were designed to calculator / add weights  or loads of rail cars.  It is a hard to find variation of this calculator.  Finally on the right we have what has become the norm in our lives, an unmarked knockoff that was offered at the time as the real thing.  .  Much like most of the name brand stuff you see at flea markets today, unless of course the parent company moved production there, then it is called progress or Global something.  It does not add up.  Anyway, all three of these are pretty nice, and all seem to operate.  Fill out the collection.

Left ..... Good+  . . . .$295.00          SOLD!

Middle ..... Good+   . . . . .$395.00        SOLD!

Right ..... Good+  . . . . .$225.00         SOLD!




Comptator Calculator / Adder   These two are basically the same with different makers names.  The left one is German and has location info on the front. 

"The Rapid Computer"  Calculator / Adder   The writing on this one says it was patented in the US in 1892.  It says it hails from Benton Harbor MI.  It seems to work just fine.   Very Nice!!

Left ...... Comptator ..... Excellent  .....$95.00        SOLD!

Right .... The Rapid Computer .....Excellent  .....$75.00 SOLD!




Odhner Style Mechanical Calculator   This mechanical calculator is similar in design and function to the American Marchant mechanical calculators made in Oakland CA around the beginning of the 20th century.  The name on this example looks to be Russian or some other Cyrillic language and it may be an Odhner which have similar features like the wingnut zeroing knobs this one sports.  Odhner calculators were first made in Russia in the 1870's after which production was moved to Sweden.  There are many other brands or makes of mechanical calculators similar to this as it was a popular design that was produced worldwide well into the 20th century.  It is functional and not bound up or jammed.  The overall condition is very nice!!

Fine  . . . . . .$95.00          SOLD!!

Comptometer Mechanical Calculator   This mechanical Comptometer calculator was cosmetically restored and sold by This Olde Office an outfit that dealt in Antique office equipment that was based here in CA back in the 90's.  The owner bought old used office equipment and repainted and "restored" them creating antiques for the decorating crowd not only in CA but worldwide.  It looks great, but this vibrant color is not one used buy the actual company.  Interesting.

Fine  . . . . . .$15.00         SOLD!!

Burroughs Glass Side Adding Machine / Calculator    Without a doubt the Burroughs Adding Machine is one of the most graphic if not heaviest of all 10 key adders / calculators ever made.  This one looks great with its see through glass sides so one could / can see how the mechanism worked when operated.  The stand is original and nice.   Quite impressive!   It was restored / repainted and sold by This Olde Office which was located here in CA back in the 90's.  It comes complete with a framed letter of authenticity which authoritatively and definitively guarantees that this is in fact an adding machine.  Thor did nice work.   A great reminder of what it use to be like. Nice!!

Good +  . . . . . .$195.00       SOLD!!

A. Burkhardt Type A Arithmometer   This early stepped drum adder / calculator is in nice overall condition. From its features and low # 72 serial number It would be a first model called the Model A produced in the 1870's.  The basic design of this style calculator was first designed over 100 years earlier and there are numerous bios on the inventors and histories of this style stepped drum calculator called and Arithmometer that can be found on the internet.  I read the original design was developed by Liebniz.  Mathias Hahn & Thomas de Colmar created versions of their own design after Liebniz.  A. Burkhardt was German and is credited with being the first in Germany to produce them.  Over the years he produced several different models with this style being the earliest. This same basic design calculator can be found with several other names from different locals as well. 

This example wants to work, but does not work properly or consistently. I believe it is just an adjustment.   I see do damage, bent pins, missing parts or the like on the underside.  It will work for small amounts, and sometimes for larger ones, but then will hang up.  It zeros out and the carriage moves OK.  Also the division function works - - - - sometimes.  On the left the small framed slate board is missing over the open hole.  There are also 2 of the miniature thumbscrews missing from the first two digits on the upper far left.  You can see this in the pics.   

A rare and unusual calculating machine, especially being the early model with such a low serial number.  Worthy of inclusion in any collection with a focus on Office antiques, calculation, or technology advancement.  

Good   . . . . .$1995.00        SOLD!!

The Calculus Calculator   This is a calculator I have never seen or had before.  This unusual dial / drum type calculator claims it was patented on January 22nd 1907.  It also has the maker name James J. Hinde Co. of Cleveland O. on the side.  The catchy logo / phrase under the name reads "Proves as it Calculates".

I could not find the patent with Google Patent Search.  I did find an ad in a lumberman's magazine touting it usefulness for use in that field or trade.  A few other references to this calculator can be found on the internet, but scant examples are pictured or discussed.  The internet site that deals with office antiques like pencil sharpeners, staplers, and the like also has an ad for one of these showing  the user sitting in front of a larger and what looks to be ganged together unit.  The dimensions of  this stand alone Calculus Calculator unit are 4 x 5 x 18".  Note the folding leg / stand that angles it for easy use.

It looks as if it is meant to calculate the price of multiple units.  The rotating drum is broken down into 1/4 increments starting at one and going up to 80, or maybe 100.  The columns are the top number added to itself over and over again in different ways   A lot of it makes no sense to me, and I have provided numerous pics below to help you determine just what it is capable of doing.    Different!!

Good +. . . . . $795.00        SOLD!

1st Model Webb Adder / Calculator   The Webb Adder was first patented near the turn of the century and the first model had a brass face and mahogany back as seen here. They were also marked with a serial # and this one is # A-5664.  The next generation were all metal and nickel plated like the ones just below.   The patina on this one is great, and it seems to operate just fine and does carry.  The earlier versions are becoming very difficult to find, hardly ever offered for sale and this is a great looking specimen.  Very Nice!!

Good+  . . . . .$695.00        SOLD!

1st Model Wooden Case / Shoe Box Style Comptometer w/ Fractional Keys  The serial # on this 1st model Comptometer w/ fractional keys is 5539.  It is stamped into the metal cover over the counter area between the 4th and 5th window.  These early 1st model wooden case comptometers were offered beginning in 1887 and were sold through 1903. During that period a little over 6,000 were produced. After that the machine was cased in a metal housing. The basic idea remained pretty much the same while going through a number of minor cosmetic changes over the years.

There is a very informative and worthwhile site that details the history, design, operation, and other info about these machines on the internet. It can be found at www2.cruzio.com . This 1st Model Comptometer is not listed there with the other known wood case examples that have turned up. Known wood case models number under 100 according to this chart and just a couple have fractional keys. Doing the math, it can be assumed that one, very few comptometers were made with fractional keys, and 2, that even fewer have survived. 

All of the main keys seem to operate as they should. There are none that are stuck. By manipulating the key strokes I can get it to zero out.  Beyond that it is not tested.   The main parts of the case are in Mahogany with its original crusty finish. The base appears to be a softwood like pine and the bottom door is present.

These wooden case comptometers only appear on the market occasionally. Some have been known to sell in the $4000 - $6000 range.  This 1st model fractional key comptometer is rare piece that will be a welcome addition to the advanced collection of early American calculation devices.  Very Nice!!

Good +  . . . . .$4500.00        SOLD!

Pickett N500-ES 4' Classroom Teaching Aid Slide Rule  The condition of this 4' teaching aid sliderule is very nice.  It is model # N500-ES Log Log rule and has 22 scales.  It dates from the 1960's.    Nice!!

Fine . . . . . $350.00

Pickett N1010-ES Trig 7' Classroom Teaching Aid Slide Rule  The condition of this 7' teaching aid sliderule is very nice.  It is model # N01010-ES Trig rule. It dates from the 1960's or 70's.  I do not think it was ever used.  Nice!!

Fine . . . . . $350.00      SOLD!!

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