Antique Rema Model 1, Mechanical Calculator. Germany, Circa 1920

Antique Rema model 1 calculating machine or mechanical calculator made in Germany circa 1920, in very good condition and fine working order. The calculator mounts a pinwheel mechanism, invented in the late 19th century by the Swiss engineer W. T. Odhner based on Leibniz arithmometer. It is quite an efficient system which was commonly used in turn-of-the-century calculators; many of these machines are still in working order and provide impeccable results. The calculator that we can see in these images is model I; only 5500 units of this model were ever manufactured. It performs the four basic arithmetic operations and works fluidly and softly, so it will delight any user. The machine stands on its original solid-oak wooden plank, in fine condition too. This base can be connected to the wooden protecting cover, original from the period and with the word Rema printed on golden lettering. The calculators casing is made of black-lacquered metal; the lacquer shows slight signs of wear due to the trace of time and use, logical in a machine which was made nearly one century ago. Though, the lacquered finish is in quite good condition and looks uniform and even. To the left we can see the brand name in white lettering, perfectly preserved. This antique Rema I calculating machine or mechanical calculator is an exclusive piece, perfect as a decorative item and to perform arithmetic operations too.Rema Calculators - History Rema calculators were created and commercialized by the Braunschweiger Rechenmaschinen co. They were manufactured by Fabrik Rema, G.m.b.H., a factory located in Braunschweig, Germany. This city was also the location of the famous Brunsviga factory; in 1922 both companies merged. Nevertheless, the firm kept on producing calculators under both brand names, Brunsviga and Rema. The machines are quite similar in design and concept, but the ones made under the Rema brand name are less known (and harder to find today) than Brunsviga calculator.