Antique Original Odhner Mechanical Calculator. Switzerland, 1930s

Striking antique Original Odhner model 27 calculating machine, coming from Switzerland and made in the 1930s. This calculator mounts a pinwheel mechanism, a mechanical system which performs arithmetic operations named after its inventor, W.T. Odhner. The calculator is finely preserved; both the black enameled finish that covers the metal casing and the matt golden paint that enhances the numerals and inscriptions remain in excellent condition. The only mechanical defect is that the turning handle knob is a little hard when you take the knob out of its lock, due to some dry grease. It's just the knob, not the crank, that works very smoothly. The machine makes it possible to perform the four basic arithmetic operation with accurate results; its performance is fluid and soft, quite satisfactory for the user. At the left top part of the calculator we can see the brand name, ORIGINAL ODHNER, in golden lettering. The mobile component parts (cranks, pointers, levers and bars) are made of silvery metal and remain in good condition, with scarcely any signs of rust or wear. The cranks mount black bakelite handles, shiny and even. If we look underneath the machine, we will see the number M602 Nº5 in big embossed lettering. Any collector of mechanical antiques will appreciate the charm and authenticity of this antique Original Odhner calculating machine, in perfect working order and with a remarkable character. Dimensions: Bottom Width: 7.8 in / 19.5 cm. Maximum Width: 8.6 in / 21.5 cm. Top Width: 6.2 in / 15.5 cm. Depth: 5.6 in / 14 cm. Height:Odhners Calculators History The history of Odhner calculators actually describes the first times of all mechanical calculators. W. T. Odhner was a Swedish engineer and entrepreneur who invented his first arithmometer (or pinwheel calculator) in Rusia in 1871. Odhner was repairing a Thomas arithmometer, the only mechanical calculator in production at the time, and decided to replace its heavy Leibniz cylinder by a lighter pinwheel disk. So he created the first modern calculator whose design was imitated and reproduced countless times during the 20th century. Odhner produced and sold his owns calculators, but after the Russian revolution of 1917 he moved to Switzerland and opened a new factory where he manufactured his arithmometers under the Original Odhner commercial name.