I've been in conversation with someone on eBay about a Type I Curta. He made a short video and apparently, he's unaware of proper usage. His video shows him quickly turning the handle clockwise and then several counterclockwise turns.

I'm wondering if because of this I should discontinue my interest in acquiring it. Otherwise it looks to be in excellent condition and it would be a shame if it is certain he damaged it. I was actually surprised at how easily the handle went in both directions. Is this an indication that it is already damaged?

Here is a link to his video if interested:
https://1drv.ms/v/c/e2878b9c7e74fb84/IQBhPH1V9pqXR7NTo0r3fon3AdWwthyXJzPAxZB3kY98fj4?e=wzxRwc

Thanks to anyone who knows and can reply and help.

Yes, the Curta is ruined - it takes a lot of force to turn the crank counterclockwise.
Once the locking mechanism is broken, it can be turned in both directions...

Can you add the eBay link?



on the right side: the mounted non return pawl




non return pawls

Thanks for the reply and giving an easily understandable explanation. I was quite surprised to see in his video how effortlessly the handle turned in the wrong direction. Poor guy was gifted this nice Curta but didn't take the time to check the instruction manuals that he had with it.

I sent him a message saying that he should not continue using it without checking the instructions. (zero stop, clearing ring, etc.) I was hoping he would consult his instructions to avoid doing further damage.

Bottom line, I'll be skipping over that one.

Thank you again for your timely help!