When Apple first started making computers back in 1976, they were made from Steve Jobs’s garage and built by Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. One of their first computers was the Apple 1, of which 200 were made and they were sold for $666.66 each. This price was chosen by Wozniak because he liked repeating digits and it was also a markup of one-third over the wholesale price of $500.
Now, one of these original Apple 1 computers is being auctioned at Christie’s auction house, with a starting price of around $160,000, and it is expected to fetch around $240,000. This auction is generating significant interest among collectors and technology enthusiasts alike, given the historical importance of the Apple 1 in the evolution of personal computing.
The Historical Significance of the Apple 1
The Apple 1 was not just a computer; it was a revolutionary product that laid the foundation for the personal computing industry. Unlike other computers of its time, the Apple 1 came as a fully assembled circuit board, which was a significant innovation. Users only needed to add a case, power supply, keyboard, and display to make it a fully functional computer. This ease of assembly made it accessible to hobbyists and early computer enthusiasts.
The Apple 1 also marked the beginning of Apple’s journey to becoming one of the most valuable companies in the world. It showcased the ingenuity and vision of its creators, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, who aimed to make computing accessible to the masses. The success of the Apple 1 paved the way for the Apple II, which became one of the best-selling personal computers of its time.
The Rarity and Value of the Apple 1
There are only between 30 to 50 of these Apple 1 computers left in the world, making them extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. The scarcity of these machines adds to their value, and they are often seen as prized possessions in technology collections. The fact that these computers are still functional adds another layer of allure, as it demonstrates the durability and quality of early Apple products.
The auction at Christie’s is not the first time an Apple 1 has been sold for a high price. In recent years, other units have fetched impressive sums at auctions. For example, in 2014, an Apple 1 was sold for $905,000 at a Bonhams auction in New York. This particular unit was in excellent condition and came with a letter from Steve Jobs, which added to its value.
The high prices these computers command reflect not only their rarity but also their historical significance. They are a tangible piece of computing history, representing the humble beginnings of a company that would go on to revolutionize the technology industry.
The Apple 1’s influence extends beyond its monetary value. It serves as a reminder of the innovative spirit that drives technological advancement. The story of the Apple 1 is a testament to the power of vision, creativity, and perseverance. It highlights how two young entrepreneurs, working out of a garage, could create a product that would change the world.
As the auction at Christie’s approaches, it will be interesting to see how much this particular Apple 1 will sell for. Given its historical significance and rarity, it could very well exceed the $240,000 guide price. Collectors and enthusiasts will be watching closely, eager to see who will become the new owner of this iconic piece of technology history.
via Ubergizmo
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