The Curta.org Bulletin Board

[tweger]

According to my research, 3000 Type 2 Curtas were made in 1960 from serial number 513521 to 516520. I own Curtas 514715 and 515681, they are both from the year 1960 but have different cannisters (the earlier one has the engraved CURTA text and the later one has the CURTA <Open< decal). Looking deeper into it, I was able to narrow down the change to somewhere between serial numbers 514983 and 515190.

Does anyone have any information on this or is able to help me narrow down the serial numbers further?

See the photo attached below:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/14FzMFN2Jo-XJodKBKKTxnFhnlAkxNuOa/view?usp=sharing

[murff]

Assigning canister variants to serial number ranges is not easy - in fact, it is impossible...
The canister can also be replaced as desired.
It is therefore quite possible that engraved canisters will appear later on - or vice versa.
I am also unaware of any corresponding notes in the manufacturing records. The switch to plastic canisters is roughly documented with the date Oct./Nov. 1965.



Here are the pictures of the variants mentioned (Gooooogle only works for members...):


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:: curta.li

[tweger]

@murff,
Thank you for the reply.
I am aware that cannisters can be replaced or switched out which makes it difficult to pinpoint but not impossible to estimate.
I am currently looking for more infomation to build a better estimate of when this change occured as there is a pattern of Curtas after 515190 having the decal label and before 514982 having the engraving. This leaves a resolution of 209 Curtas, I am looking for anyone that may have more information on this change along with any user that might have a Curta within this range that could share there cannister style.
I already have a list of estimated variations based on manufacturing records, but I am trying to also piece together a more precise record using sales records, archives, pictures and user input.
Please let me know if anyone has more info.
Thanks!

[murff]

The plan is dated January 5, 1960.



Based on my records, the change took place around June 1960 (serial number 5149XX).
_________________
:: m u r f f
:: curta.li

[tweger]

@murff
Thank you, this information is very helpful!