Antique Thales A1 Mechanical Calculator. Germany, 1920s

Fine antique Thales A1 mechanical calculator made in Germany in the 1920s. This fascinating pinwheel machine is in perfect working order, making it possible to perform arithmetic operations. The black-enameled finish that covers the metal casing is slightly worn, something logical in a piece which is nearly one hundred years old. The trace of time and the use have left their print on its fine look, but the calculator still works and preserves the great charm of early-20th-century office machines. The black-enameled metal case bears engraved numerals and inscriptions painted white and red. The mobile component parts are made of chromed metal, while the handle of the crank is made of bone-white plastic material. The calculator stands on four orange rubber legs that provide it with stability. At the front, to the left of the numerals we can see the brand name Thales in white engraved lettering. The back side of the calculator bears a riveted metal plate with the name and address of the shop where it was originally sold. The excellent performance and attractive look of this antique Thales A1 mechanical calculator turn it into an exclusive piece, the perfect gift for a lover of old-time devices. Measurements: Top Width: 5.2 in / 13 cm. Maximum Width (without cranks): 7.2 in / 18 cm. Depth: 4.4 in / 11 cm. Height: 3.8 in / 9.5 cm.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.