Ain't she a beauty? You're admiring IBM's first microcomputer, released in late 1975. The featherweight (it tipped the scales at a mere 55 lbs) Model 5100 was marketed as a portable, thanks to an optional carrying case. It was based on a 16-bit processor module dubbed the PALM which featured no less than 15 discrete chips, and the machine was available with between 16 and 64 KB of main memory (at a cost of $8,975 to $19,795). Two programming languages were available: BASIC and APL.
I imagine this svelte little beast must have set the research world on its ear by integrating a 5-inch monochrome CRT, computer, keyboard and 200K DC33 tape storage unit in a compact case. Still, it was far too expensive for casual hobbyists, who would have to wait another couple of years for mass market "home" machines like the Tandy/Radio Shack TRS-80 Model I, the Commodore PET and the Apple II to ignite the microcomputer revolution.
IBM 5100 Portable Computer [IBM Archives]




It's not because I'm a crazy fan of the program (entitled "Invincible Super Man Zanbot 3" to be precise) - in fact I've never seen it. Since the late 70's I've have two of the three "space base" toys, and they combine into two-thirds of a mega-vehicle. Hopefully we'll be okay if we ever have to fight with two-thirds of Voltron.


The Bolex H16 is one of the most popular 16mm movie cameras ever made. The original H16 was introduced in 1935 and the modern spring-operated SBM model can still be purchased new. Bolex cameras remain extremely popular among film students and experimental filmmakers, because they're capable of capturing images that put sterile "High-Def" camcorders to shame. It's even possible to convert vintage cameras to shoot modern widescreen Super 16mm format.
My realtor pitch isn't going exactly well here...

Dating back to 1977, the aftershave in the heads of these presidents still smells pretty good. I don't know how much of the original essence has evaporated, but I could see still using this sweet smelling stuff after one of my typical abortive attempts at shaving.
