Hey everyone,
Can anyone date this machine for me based on the stamp?
Cheers!
Yasmin

Question

Cristian h-less · Accepted Answer

Hi Yasmin! Based on the fact that Fortuna made the 50.000th machine in 1967 I've calculated that they made about 780 machines/year on average starting from 1903 when they released the first model. So dividing 27728 to 780 results the machine was made in their 35th years, about 1938. But take it with a lot of salt and pepper, and put some chilli too because that's a rough estimation. I am sure Fortuna didn't made every year 780 machines, rather they started lower in their first years or there wasn't the same demand in every year.

I suspect it was made in WW2 era, hard to tell with precission. More information should offer Fortuna itself.

Cristian h-less · Answer

I've completely disassembled the machine because I wanted to powder coat it. Very simple machine indeed, but attention must be paid to certain aspects. If you're not sure about putting it back together just make photos to have something to come back at if it's needed. Another idea is to group the pieces together from the same ensemble to make it easier after.

This way you will easily learn your machine and know in depth how it's working.

Yasmin · Answer

@Cristian Thank you, that's a really kind offer. I am actually videoing as I go with this restoration so if I can help anyone else, the information will be there. I think the biggest question I have is did you pull every last bit apart to clean it, paint it, oil and grease it etc, or did you leave everything in situ? I am a bit concerned about pulling it to pieces and not getting it back together again 😂 although it is mechanically a very simple machine.

Cristian h-less · Answer

@Yasmin I recently refurbished an FAV machine. Should you need any guidance just let me know, happy to help.

Hey everyone, Can anyone date this machine for me based on the stamp? Cheers! Yasmin

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