Brunsviga Calculator, 1950s

Mechanical calculators made in the 1900s combine precision and beauty in equal proportion. This is the case of this exceptional Brunsviga 13 RK calculator, a real classic of mechanical operation machines that was manufactured in Germany in the 1950s. With its solid and imposing look, this calculator works wonderfully and it is a pleasure to use it to perform the four basic arithmetic operations. The machines casing is made of metal sheet covered by a nice hammered golden grey enamel finish. The mobile component parts are nickel-plated and the knobs are made of dark red bakelite.The Brunsviga 13 RK is a classic mechanical calculator from the 20th century. Just like many vintage calculating machines, its operation is based on the pinwheel system developed by W. T Odhner in the late 20th century. In 1892 Odhner sold his patent rights to Grimme, Natalis & Co. A.G. of Braunschweig for sale in Germany and some neighboring countries. The calculators manufactured by the German company were called Brunsviga (Latin for Braunschweig). The firm eventually acquired the name of their famous machine and sold uop to 20,000 units between 1892 and 1812. In 1959 Brunsviga was merged with the typewriter manufacturer Olympia Werke AG.This fine machines design is quite nice because of the contrast between the different colors and materials. The light hammered enameled finish makes a nice contrast with the shiny chromed mobile parts, all of them original and in perfect working order. The dark red bakelite handles and pointers are in optimal condition, as shiny as the first day of use. At the machines base we can see a small metal plate with the models name, Brunsviga RK 13, and just over it is the engraved serial number: 13-65409.This calculator from the past century is a museum piece, worthy of a great collection of vintage charming machines.