Step back into the working world of the 1910s with this antique American Adding Machine, an impressive hand operated mechanical calculator produced by the American Can Company in Chicago.
Long before electronic calculators and computers, machines like this sat on the desks of bookkeepers, merchants and office workers. Numbers were selected using the vertical setting levers, then entered by pulling the large hand crank. Its ornate patterned metal case, visible number register and exposed mechanical controls give it a commanding early industrial appearance.
This appears to be the Model 00, manufactured approximately 1916 to early 1918. It features seven input columns, an eight digit result register and the decorative patterned finish associated with this early model.
Details:
• Manufacturer: American Can Company
• Name: American Adding Machine
• Model: Believed to be Model 00
• Estimated date: Circa 1916 to early 1918
• Type: Hand operated mechanical calculator and adding machine
• Material: Heavy metal construction
• Country of manufacture: United States
• Made in Chicago, Illinois
• More than 100 years old
Working condition:
Everything I tested appears to move and respond. The numbered setting levers move, the hand crank operates and the number display appears to function. However, I am not familiar with the proper operation of these early calculating machines and have not tested every mathematical function or verified the accuracy of its calculations.
It therefore appears to be in working condition, but it is being offered as functionally unverified rather than professionally tested or serviced.
Condition:
This is a genuine antique with substantial surface wear, finish loss, scratches, oxidation, discoloration and age related patina. Wear is especially visible around the base and frequently handled areas. No professional restoration has been performed.
The remaining decorative finish gives the machine tremendous character and reflects more than a century of age and use. Please examine every photograph carefully because the photographs form an important part of the condition description.
Comparable complete and functioning examples may fall within an approximate collector market range of $150 to $275, depending on condition, operation and selling venue. Buyers are encouraged to research current listings and completed sales independently.
This would make a striking display piece for a mechanical calculator collection, accounting office, library, executive office, industrial interior or museum inspired display.
You will receive the exact American Adding Machine shown in the photographs.
30 Day Return Guarantee:
Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery. If you decide it is not the right piece for your collection, it may be returned in the same condition for a refund.