As an electronics enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by how devices of the past have shaped our present technologies. However, little did I know that some of these vintage tech pieces are now worth more than their weight in gold! Whether they bring back a sense of nostalgia, offer unique functionality, or are just plain rare, old electronics can fetch surprisingly hefty sums. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 old electronics that I found to be worth more than I ever expected.
1. Apple I Computer
The Apple I, the first product to be released by the now tech-giant Apple Inc., is a real treasure. Initially sold at $666.66 back in 1976, a working Apple I was auctioned for a staggering $905,000 in 2014. The Apple I is a testament to the humble beginnings of the tech behemoth we now know as Apple. What makes it so valuable is its rarity, with only about 200 units ever made and even fewer still surviving today. So, if you’re lucky enough to stumble upon this gem, know that you have stumbled upon a piece of technological history.
2. Sony Walkman TPS-L2
Sony’s TPS-L2 Walkman, the first portable cassette player, revolutionized personal audio when it debuted in 1979. Once sold for $150, a mint condition model today can fetch up to $600. The Walkman’s significance in the evolution of personal audio can’t be overstated. It was the device that made music portable, paving the way for the iPods and streaming services we enjoy today. As such, it’s sought after by collectors, and its value is sure to appreciate in the years to come.
3. Nintendo Game Boy
The original Game Boy, released by Nintendo in 1989, was a groundbreaking device in portable gaming. Although it originally retailed for around $90, a mint condition Game Boy can now sell for as much as $750. As the precursor to today’s handheld gaming consoles, the Game Boy holds a special place in gaming history. Its enduring popularity and the nostalgia it evokes make it a hot collector’s item, especially for those who grew up in the 80s and 90s.
4. First Generation iPod
The first generation iPod, launched by Apple in 2001, was a game changer in the world of digital music. Originally sold for $399, these devices can now fetch up to $20,000 if they’re still sealed in the original packaging. The iPod was instrumental in transitioning music from physical media to digital formats. Its impact on the music industry and its iconic design make it a prime target for collectors, especially those sealed units which are becoming rarer by the day.
5. Zenith Space Command TV Remote
The Space Command, created by Zenith in 1956, was the first practical wireless TV remote. This revolutionary device can now fetch up to $500, a far cry from its original price of $100. The Space Command marked a huge leap forward in television technology. Its use of ultrasonic technology was later replaced by infrared, but its impact on TV viewing habits cannot be understated. This piece of television history holds great value for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
6. Motorola DynaTAC 8000X
The Motorola DynaTAC 8000X, the world’s first commercially available cell phone, is a sought-after piece of mobile history. Originally sold for a whopping $3,995 in 1983, it can now fetch between $500 and $1,000 depending on its condition. The DynaTAC 8000X opened the doors to the world of mobile communication. Although its design might seem clunky compared to today’s sleek smartphones, it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come in mobile technology, making it a collector’s dream.
7. Commodore 64
The Commodore 64, released in 1982, is the best-selling single computer model of all time. Originally priced at $595, a working model can now sell for up to $700. The Commodore 64 was many people’s introduction to home computing, making it a major player in the personal computer revolution. Its enduring popularity and significance in computing history make it a valuable find.
8. Polaroid SX-70
The Polaroid SX-70, released in 1972, was the first instant SLR camera. Once sold for $180, mint condition models can now fetch up to $400. The SX-70 was a major innovation in photography – it made instant photography accessible to the masses. Its unique folding design and the nostalgia it evokes make it a desirable piece for collectors.
9. HP-35 Scientific Calculator
The HP-35, released by Hewlett-Packard in 1972, was the first handheld scientific calculator. Originally priced at $395, it can now fetch up to $500. The HP-35 revolutionized engineering and mathematics by making complex calculations portable. Its significance in the history of computing, combined with its unique design, makes it a valuable collector’s item.
10. Atari 2600
The Atari 2600, released in 1977, brought video gaming into the living room. Originally sold for $199, a mint condition model can now sell for up to $700. The Atari 2600 was instrumental in sparking the home video game revolution. Its iconic design and the nostalgia it brings make it a sought-after piece for collectors. With the rise in retro gaming, its value is only set to increase.
