Beautiful Antique Thales Calculating Machine, Model B. Germany, Circa 1915

Beautiful antique Thales calculating machine, model B, made in Germany circa 1915 and in good condition. This calculator works fine and makes it possible to perform the four basic arithmetical operations with a fluid and soft operability. The metal-sheet casing which hides the mechanism bears a nice black-enameled finish, original from the time and with some subsequent retouches. To the left we can see the Thales logo in engraved and white-enameled lettering, diagonally disposed. The letters and the numerals still preserve most of the original white and red paint. At the bottom right corner, we can see the serial number 13431 engraved in the steel base. The machine stands on a solid oak-wooden plank which connects the curved wooden cover through the original lock and key set (functional). The cover preserves the original golden Thales decal in fine condition. Every lover of old-time calculators will appreciate this antique Thales calculating machine model B, an iconic piece which remains perfectly functional. Thales Calculators History The history of Thales started with mr. Emil Schubert. In 1906 he was a foreman at the Triumphator-Werke, and was involved with the development of pinwheel calculators from the beginning on. In 1911 he decided to form a company (together with a businessman called L. Haberer) to produce calculators of his own. The later success of the Thales was due to Max Mueller, a talented businessman who had also good connections. In 193 Mueller was found guilty of embezzlement and was forced to leave the company. In 1936 the National Socialists forced E. Schubert to leave his company without taking his patents. He then found a new company to produce calculators under his own name, Schubert. After WWII, Max Mueller came back to head the Thales-Werke in Rastatt. Their pinwheel calculators were successful on the world market until the late 1960s.