In the world of tech memorabilia, few items command the respect and interest as does the Apple Macintosh prototype from 1983, known as the Twiggy model. This rare piece of computing history is poised to break new records as it heads to auction, with estimates suggesting it could reach as high as $120,000.
A Glimpse into the Past: The ‘Twiggy’ Macintosh Prototype
The Apple Macintosh prototype, designated as #M0001, is a relic from the early days of personal computing. Distinguished by its use of 5.25-inch Twiggy disk drives, this model predates the more common 3.5-inch drives found in the Mac 128. The Twiggy’s scarcity is a tale of Steve Jobs’ exacting standards; he reportedly ordered the destruction of pre-production machines due to issues with the drives.
The Auction Offering
Bonhams auction house in New York is hosting the sale, which runs from October 13 to October 23. The lot includes not only the prototype Macintosh but also a prototype keyboard with a handwritten serial number, a prototype M01000 mouse with a unique connector, and a dual-density Twiggy diskette labeled Mac Word.
Software and Steve Jobs’ Influence
The software running on this prototype is as intriguing as the hardware itself. Early versions of Mac applications feature notifications with instructions from Steve Jobs, offering a glimpse into the Apple founder’s direct involvement in the user experience.
A History of High Sales
This isn’t the first time a ‘Twiggy’ Macintosh prototype has gone under the hammer. In 2019, one sold for a staggering $150,075, while another was listed on eBay in 2012 with a price tag of $99,995. Both instances demonstrated that the Macintosh prototypes were fully functional, which significantly boosted their value.
The Estimate and Potential Records
With an estimated sale price of between $80,000 and $120,000, the upcoming auction could set new sales records if the prototype is proven to be in working condition. The historical significance of this item, coupled with its rarity and the direct link to Apple’s iconic past, makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors and enthusiasts.
Conclusion
As the Apple ‘Twiggy’ Macintosh prototype prepares to be auctioned, it stands as a testament to the evolution of technology and the enduring legacy of Apple. The auction not only offers a chance to own a piece of computing history but also serves as a reminder of the innovative spirit that has driven the tech industry forward. For those with the means, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure a significant piece of Apple’s heritage.
References
- Bonhams Auction House
- Previous auction records of ‘Twiggy’ Macintosh prototypes
- Historical context of the Apple Macintosh and Steve Jobs’ influence
This article is a product of extensive research and analysis of the available information on the Apple ‘Twiggy’ Macintosh prototype, ensuring accuracy and providing a comprehensive look into this fascinating piece of tech history.
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