Mechanical calculators: FACIT 10-04
c1969 FACIT 10-04 s/n 1953833
I purchased this machine in January 2013 at an online auction site. The 10-04 model was the very last manual calculator manufactired by Facit in Sweden. The model is very similar to the CM2-16, with the same specs, and a few external differences, including a plastic cover. It has a handle that pops out in the lower front to help moving the machine around in an office desk.
This one is in pretty goood shape, but the lubrication inside is the most deteriorated I have seen. Much grease has been applied, and hardened in some parts. When I got it, it was completely stuck. Some directed cleaning and a thorough spray of kerosene have loosened part of the main subsystems, but it was not nearly enough. A full disassembly and cleaning is required, so that the machine can operate smoothly again.
There's no reference as to the year of manufacture, but the 10-04 model was produced in Facit's final years of operation in Sweden, between 1967 and 1969 ( details here and here).
Have a mechanical calculator stored somewhere, and want to get rid of it? Send it to me!
As purchased, in January 2013
Detail of the degraded lubrication
Insides, pre-cleaning
More about this machine