Antique Thales ME Windlass Calculator. In good working order. Germany, 1936

Attractive antique Thales ME pinwheel calculator made in Germany in 1936 and in magnificent condition. The calculator is surprisingly well preserved, especially if we consider that it's almost 80 years old. It works perfectly and makes it possible to perform the four basic arithmetical operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) with impeccable results. This machine works with the same mechanism invented and patented by W. T. Odhner in the late 19th century, based in th arithmometer designed by Leibniz in the 16th century. At the front side of the calculator, to the left of the digit levers we can see a decal with the Thales logo engraved in the metal and painted white. Thales calculators were made and produced by a company founded in 1911 by Emil Schubert in Rastatt, Germany, together with L. Haberer. Schubert was a former Triumphator-Werke employee and wishing to start his own career, opened a factory to make pinwheel calculators. Then a businessman called Max Mueller entered the company and led it to success, though some years later he was found guilty of embezzlement. In the 1930s Schubert abandoned his business to the East Germany government and opened another calculator factory. On the other hand, in 1946 Mueller came back to take control of the Thales-Werke; his calculators kept on being produced until the 60s. This lovely calculator has black-enameled metal sheet case with white and red numbers and decals. The enameled finish is in a wonderful condition: even, shiny and with no flaws at all. The digit levers work great, just like the crank and the pointers. At the front of the machine, the base shows an engraved inscription with the calculators model and serial number: ME24277. The bone-colored bakelite handles and the chromed-metal component parts are also extremely well preserved. This classic calculator from the first half of the 20th century is waiting to shine in a collection of the most attractive mechanical antiques.