Flea market jewel: Historical measuring device auctioned for 550 euros!

Flea market jewel: Historical measuring device auctioned for 550 euros!

In a surprise scene on the popular ZDF program "Bares for Rares", flea market visitor Udo Zehe caused excitement with an unusual find. The 47-year-old bought a trigonometric quick measurement and calculation slide from 1875, which was invented by the Vienna forest engineer Eduard Apfelbeck, for only ten euros. The device, which is considered a technical unicum, measures angles and the opening time of the sun and offers over 200 functions. At his presentation, expert Sven Deutschmanek estimated the value of an impressive 500 to 700 euros.

Udo Zehe originally hoped for a value of 50 to 70 euros, but the expert assessment was amazed at the dealers. Dealer David Suppes in particular showed a lot of interest and began with a bid of 20 euros, which he quickly adapted according to the estimate. Auctioneer Wolfgang Pauritsch finally acquired the valuable piece for 550 euros.

The variety of functions of the device

In addition to the impressive dimensions of the device, there are a variety of functions that represent a unique combination of different measuring instruments. It combines 200 geometric, mathematical and physical degrees measurement and registration instruments that can be used for the registration and telegraphization of machines, wagons and railways. Ketterer Rare Books describes the device as "most comfortable, powerful and most highly angled measurement and leveling instrument", which is important in technology history underline.

The trigonometric device has a semicircular measuring disc of approx. 20 x 13 cm, which is provided with numerous scales and a small map of Europe and North Africa. The piece is the 48th edition, which was published around 1890. In addition, 54 small depictions and 19 textillustrations are part of the device that is apparently fully functional, although the cover is slightly stained.

historical meaning and context

The development of such measuring instruments is not accidental. Apfelbeck was a member of the Vienna Circle of Creative Heads around Josef Engelhart and contributed to the founding of the Vienna Secession in 1897. This creative movement is often associated with the departure into a new art and design era that also shaped the technical innovation and exchange between art and science.

As the case of Udo Zehe shows, historical technical artifacts not only have a financial, but also a cultural value that is rediscovered in the current time.