so when i get my halda speed pilot and my curta then i'll become a
millionare?
i will be inheriting one each somewhere down the road...(i'm in no hurry!)
chuck.
----- Original Message -----
From <Ajhsys at aol.com>
To: <grbyrns@ucdavis.edu>; <chuckc@attglobal.net>
Cc: <spridgets@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, March 07, 2003 11:28 AM
Subject: Re: Curta (pepper-grinder)
> In a message dated 3/6/03 5:44:46 PM Eastern Standard Time,
> grbyrns@ucdavis.edu writes:
>
>
> > They actually gave this "Curta" guy a patent on this? When I saw it I
> > recognized it as a new version of a MUCH older device called the
"Babbidge
> > Difference Engine", an entirely mechanical gear-filled device that
> > performed
> > mathematical calculations. Charles Babbidge invented it in the 19th
> > century. Looks like Curta put one over on the patent office.
>
> - - - - - - - - - -
>
> This quote is from www.computer-museum.org.
>
> "This strange looking device has one of the most interesting stories in
> computer history. The Curta mechanical calculator was designed by Curt
> Herzstark during World War II while a prisoner in a Nazi concentration
camp.
> It was originally earmarked as a gift to Hitler to celebrate the winning
of
> the war. Instead, Mr. Herzstark took his invention to the small country of
> Lichtenstein, where it was manufactured and sold as the Curta Calculator.
>
> "Originally selling for $120, the little machine was very popular among
> certain groups, especially car rally enthusiasts. Although many were sold
> (140,000 of both types I and II), they are considered to be a rare and
> collectible item, especially those that are still operational."
>
> Interesting!
>
> BTW, an original, Curta Model 1, with box and instructions, sold for $1300
on
> eBay.
>
> Allen Hefner
> Phila. Region SCCA Rally Steward
> '77 MG Midget (#51 FSP)
> '75 MG Midget (The Project)
> '92 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Sport
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