The Apple-1, the first computer designed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, has become one of the world’s most valuable technological artifacts. Recently, one of the rare Apple-1 units sold for a whopping $618,000 at an exclusive auction. This article will discuss the history of the Apple-1, why it is so valuable, and what makes it sought after by collectors around the world.
History of Apple-1, The Beginning of the Technology Revolution
The Apple-1 was first introduced in 1976 by Apple co-founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. Designed in the Jobs family garage in Los Altos, California, the computer was the first product sold by the Apple Computer Company. With an initial price of $666.66, the Apple-1 was sold as a pre-assembled circuit board, but without a case, keyboard, or monitor. Users had to add these components themselves to make it work.
Although modest by today's technological standards, the Apple-1 was a major innovation for its time. It offered more accessible programming capabilities to individuals, paving the way for the personal computer revolution that changed the world.
Why is the Apple-1 so valuable?
Only about 200 Apple-1s were ever produced, and it is estimated that only 60 to 70 remain today. Of those, only a few are still in working order. This rarity makes the Apple-1 a highly sought-after collector's item.
In addition, the Apple-1 has incredible historical value. This computer is not only a symbol of Apple's beginnings as one of the world's largest technology companies, but also a representation of the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that characterizes Silicon Valley. Each Apple-1 unit carries a story about how two young people with a big vision managed to change the world of technology.
Latest Sale, Rp. 6.18 Billion for an Apple-1
In a recent auction, an Apple-1 unit was successfully sold for Rp6.18 billion. This unit is one of the few Apple-1s that is still functioning properly and is equipped with original components, including a user manual and a letter from Steve Jobs. This near-perfect condition is one of the main reasons why the auction price is so high.
The buyer of the Apple-1 is an unnamed technology collector. He stated that the purchase was not only an investment, but also a tribute to the history of technology and the legacy left by Jobs and Wozniak.
Impact of Sales on the World of Technology Collectibles
The sale of the Apple-1 for such a high price shows that interest in technology collectibles continues to grow. Collectors and investors see items like the Apple-1 as valuable assets that not only have historical value, but also the potential to continue to increase in value in the future.
The sale also inspired a renewed interest in the history of technology, with many people interested in learning more about how the personal computer first developed and how those innovations shaped the modern world.
Conclusion
The Apple-1 was more than just a computer; it was a symbol of the beginning of a technological revolution that has changed the way we live and work. The sale of an Apple-1 for $400,000 is a testament to the historical and emotional value of this computer.
For collectors, the Apple-1 is a priceless treasure. For the tech world, it is a reminder of the importance of innovation and the courage to dream big. With every Apple-1 sold, we are reminded of the incredible journey that began in a small garage in California and ended with the creation of one of the world's largest technology companies.
