Featured What is this small metal box - machine? I assume a tool of some kind

Discussion in 'Tools' started by Bookahtoo, Dec 9, 2019.

  1. Bookahtoo

    Bookahtoo Moderator Moderator

    I found this small box today and couldn't resist buying it for $1. I love machines!!! It measures 1 1/4" wide by 2 1/2" long by 1" tall when closed. It is made of pretty heavy enamel steel on the outside, brass on the inside. The round silver metal things rotate when you pull the cord quickly out one side or the other. The brown plastic slotted rectangles move up and down if you push them. What is it for?
    I did find out some of the history of the Siemens company during WWII, so my joy in it as an object has been greatly lessened, but I'd still like to know what it does.

    smallDSCN1032.JPG

    smallDSCN1037.JPG

    smallDSCN1036.JPG smallDSCN1045.JPG
     
    Bookahtoo, Dec 9, 2019
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  2. sabre123

    sabre123 Well-Known Member

    sabre123, Dec 9, 2019
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  3. Any Jewelry

    Any Jewelry Well-Known Member

    Big companies in a totalitarian state are never squeaky clean. Life in a totalitarian state is something we in the free world can't fathom. But some companies, like Siemens, did more than their 'duty', they were downright dirty.

    Let's just agree your nice box is post-war. That helps a tiny bit.
     
    Any Jewelry, Dec 9, 2019
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  4. Bookahtoo

    Bookahtoo Moderator Moderator

    Wow! Thanks sabre! I never would have guessed. I was thinking static electricity, test unit, etc. etc.

    Any jewelry - that does help a little. But I'm still not tempted to keep it anymore. :(
     
    Bookahtoo, Dec 9, 2019
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  5. sabre123

    sabre123 Well-Known Member

    I can see your point, Bookahtoo, but it's still a rather ingenious little device. Perfect for when you're out in the field with no source of electricity and have a dull blade.
     
    sabre123, Dec 9, 2019
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  6. Ownedbybear

    Ownedbybear Well-Known Member

    I used to work for Siemens. There were actually two separate and distinct companies, one British, the other of German origin. They came together well after WW2, from memory. Mine was the bit that made telecoms stuff and did IT, took over Plessey and GEC, also British.
     
    Ownedbybear, Dec 18, 2019
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  7. Lando

    Lando Member

    really neat item, just think of the history it must have seen....While some of it may have been horrible... It still is amazing to be around in this decade
     
    Lando, Dec 20, 2019
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