"The Millionaire" Calculator (Hans W. Egli / Otto Steiger)
Other: Office Machinery / Mechanical Calculating Device · Industrial/Scientific (Late Victorian to Early 20th Century) · Hans W. Egli (Manufacturer) / Otto Steiger (Inventor)
Type
Other: Office Machinery / Mechanical Calculating Device
Style Period
Industrial/Scientific (Late Victorian to Early 20th Century)
Material
Primarily cast iron, brass, and steel components housed in a wooden or metal carrying case with paper instructional charts.
Age Estimate
Circa 1893-1935 (this specific grey-faced model likely dates to the 1920s).
Dimensions
Approximately 20-25 inches wide, 12-15 inches deep, and 7-9 inches high; significantly heavier than modern office equipment, weighing roughly 60-80 lbs.
Origin
Zurich, Switzerland; widely used by governments and railroad companies in the United States and Europe.
Designer/Maker
Hans W. Egli (Manufacturer) / Otto Steiger (Inventor)
Value Estimate
Typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,500 depending on mechanical functionality and the presence of the original case and stand.
Description
The Millionaire was the first commercially successful mechanical calculator that could perform direct multiplication rather than repeated addition. It features a complex system of sliders, a hand crank for operation, and a large carriage for output results. This specific example remains in its original protective case with the critical multiplication tables and operating instructions still affixed to the inner lid.
Key Features
Direct multiplication mechanism (the 'Steiger' mechanism), linear sliders for divisor input, and the 'Millionaire' branding on the faceplate.
Color & Finish
Grey powder-coated or painted top plates over dark iron/brass; case often finished in black lacquer or natural dark wood stain.
Construction Method
Precision industrial machine manufacturing involving cast metal plates, machined gears, and hand-assembled internal mechanical linkages.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Industrial mechanical engineering; case features simple butt or miter joints, while the machine uses precision-milled gears and lever systems.
Wood Grain & Species
External case is typically mahogany or oak (visible grain) used for structural housing rather than decorative parquetry.
Surface Treatment
Machined metal with etched numbering, painted indicators, and printed paper reference cards inside the lid.
Upholstery Details
None (non-upholstered scientific instrument).
Hardware & Fittings
Features polished metal cranks, sliders (divisors), nickel-plated knobs, brass hinges, and a metal identification plate for Hans W. Egli.
Origin & Provenance
Zurich, Switzerland; widely used by governments and railroad companies in the United States and Europe.
Condition Notes
Good; shows surface dust and minor oxidation on metal components. Original instructional charts appear intact but yellowed. Structural integrity of the case appears sound. (Overall Grade: Good)
Interesting Facts
The machine was so fast for its time that it could multiply two 8-digit numbers in roughly seven seconds, making it the fastest calculator in the world for several decades.
Cultural Significance
Represented a major leap in computational technology, bridging the gap between simple adding machines and the electronic computers of the mid-20th century.
Similar Pieces
Arithmometers (requires repeated turns for multiplication), Odhner-style pinwheel calculators, and Comptometers (key-driven).
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a climate-controlled environment to prevent rust; do not force mechanical cranks if seized; use only specialty watch oil for internal gears.
Value Estimate
Typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,500 depending on mechanical functionality and the presence of the original case and stand.
Sustainability Notes
Built for lifelong durability and repairability; composed of highly recyclable metals and natural wood/paper.