Object Details
maker
Bowmar/Ali
distributor
Craig Corporation
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a gray and black plastic case, with a plastic display window and square black plastic keys. It has an array of nine digit keys above the zero and decimal bars. Four keys for arithmetic functions are right of these. At the top are a percentage key, a total key, a clear key, and an on/off switch. Behind this is a red eight-digit LED display. A mark at the top reads: CRAIG.
A socket for a power cord is on the right side. This example lacks a cord. The keys are loose.
An "OPERATING OUTLINE" on a tag on the back of the case gives instructions. It reads at the bottom: CRAIG 4507 SER. 112426 (/) CRAIG CORPORATION CRAMPTON, CALIFORNIA 90720 (/) MADE IN U.S.A. PATENT PENDING.
Four screws hold the back of the case to the front. The calculator has a battery compartment at the top of the back. A mark in plastic on the back of the lid reads: C905-051. A stamp on the back of the lid reads: 077418.
Compare the Bowmar 90506, 1986.0988.0105. That calculator has the same array of keys but keys are a different shape and there is no battery pack.
Bowmar/Ali manufactured this calculator and Craig Corporation sold it.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 63.
Chicago Tribune, November 29, 1973, p. A16. Advertised as on sale for $69.99, with a regular price of $159.95. Said to be the same calculator as the Bowmar MX-50.
Los Angeles Times, January 16, 1974, p. A28. Advertised as on sale for $69.99.
Los Angeles Times, April 12, 1974, p. OC_B6. Advertised as on sale for $69.99.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1973-1974
ID Number
1986.0988.311
catalog number
1986.0988.311
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Physical Description
plastic (case; display window; keys material)
metal (circuitry material)
Measurements
overall: 1 1/2 in x 3 in x 5 3/4 in; 3.81 cm x 7.62 cm x 14.605 cm
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Computers
Computers & Business Machines
Handheld Electronic Calculators
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1363442