The Curta.org Bulletin Board

Sean · Joined: 01 Jun 2008 Posts: 3 Location: Sydney, Australia

I have been wondering if anyone has ever contemplated producing a Curta replica based on the original specifications and plans using modern day materials and metalworking technology ? I can imagine though producing a replica would cost far more than the original in equivalent dollars.

stenella · Joined: 03 Jun 2008 Posts: 47 Location: Antwerp, Belgium

Since there are over 600 miniature parts in a Curta, that would all have to be made to a high precision from various materials, I think that, since mass production is not possible for this kind of endeavour as there is almost no market for replica curta's, it would mainly be hand-work. Seeing how much work it is to replicate a simple part such as the clearing lever, the cost would not be simply high, it would be downright astronomical. It might become worthwile if Curtas go up in price about 50-fold ...better start hamstering Wink

There are many other mechanical calculators of which only one or two specimens are known ...they may be more amenable to replication, since they are usually also larger and made to larger tolerances. But still, for a one-off machine, it would be months, if not years of work for the competent home machinist with a decent shop.

Cris