SHARP - Calculator - 1970-1980 - SHARP Elsi Mate EL-8048

Rare Vintage SHARP Elsi Mate EL-8048 "Sorokal" Soroban Abacus Electronic Calculator - Boxed with Manual - Working

This is an exceptionally rare, iconic, and classic vintage Japanese hybrid electronic calculator and traditional abacus, famously known as the SHARP "Sorokal" (ソロカル / EL-8048) from the Elsi Mate series. Produced by Sharp Corporation in the late 1970s, this legendary device stands as a top-tier piece of vintage technology history, blending centuries-old calculation methods with early digital computing. This specific set is remarkably well-preserved, coming complete with its original factory box and the Japanese user manual.

[Artistic Features & Craftsmanship Details]
This exquisite vintage gadget stands as a quintessential representation of Showa-era industrial design and Japanese engineering innovation:
- Unique Hybrid Mechanism: The unit seamlessly integrates a fully operational 4-row traditional Japanese Soroban (abacus) with plastic amber-toned beads alongside a classic 8-digit digital LCD electronic calculator interface.
- Complete Collector's Set: Finding this historic piece with its original graphic retail box and the authentic matching Japanese instruction manual (including the attached warranty slip) is incredibly rare, making it a premium centerpiece for any vintage tech or mathematical curiosity collection.
- Clean Showa Aesthetics: The off-white chassis, distinct retro grey and red keypads, and clear viewing windows on the back showing the inner abacus rails remain in beautiful vintage condition.

[Product Details]
- Item: Fine Vintage SHARP Soroban Abacus Electronic Calculator (シャープ そろばん電卓 ソロカル)
- Model / Ref: Elsi Mate EL-8048
- Manufacturer: SHARP Corporation (Made in Korea)
- Power Rating: 9V (DC) 0.025W / Requires 1x S-006P (9V) Battery (Battery not included)
- Dimensions: Approx. Length 30 cm × Width 8 cm × Thickness 2 cm
- Net Weight: 364 g (Including box and manual)
- Condition: Vintage working condition. The unit has been tested and is confirmed to be operational. The calculator keys press smoothly and the abacus beads slide beautifully along their rods. True to its authentic vintage nature, the digital LCD screen shows a slight natural cloudiness/aging typical of early liquid crystal displays, though digits remain readable. The battery compartment is clean and completely free of historic battery leakage or corrosion, with the original wired clip perfectly intact. The exterior plastic body displays very minor, light surface scuffs from gentle storage over the decades, and the original cardboard box shows minor edge wear and light creasing from time (as clearly depicted in the detailed photos). Please closely and carefully review all high-resolution, multi-angle photos for exact visual details and screen condition before placing your bid.

[Important Shipping & Customs Information - Please Read]
- Delivery Time: Please note that international shipping from Japan requires extra time for transit and customs clearance. Your patience is highly appreciated.
- Customs & Taxes: Import duties, taxes, and VAT/customs charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These additional charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding.

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