Overview
This is an authentic U. S. military-issued Type CPU-26A/P dead reckoning flight computer made by Felsenthal Instruments Co. under military contract MIL-C-27216A.
Identification
USAF Type CPU-26A/P Dead Reckoning Flight Computer by Felsenthal Instruments, c. 1960s
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Story
Manufactured by Felsenthal Instruments Co. in Chicago, Illinois, a major contractor for the US military during the mid-20th century. The CPU-26A/P was a standard-issue dead reckoning computer used extensively by the USAF and USN for manual flight calculations (speed, wind drift, fuel burn) before digital avionics became ubiquitous. The secondary market for vintage analog flight computers is niche but steady, driven by aviation enthusiasts, militaria collectors, and student pilots learning manual dead reckoning.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
The seller notes the item has no missing parts and includes the original protector and booklet. Assuming standard used condition, typical wear to the plastic/metal components and the protective case is expected.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The secondary market for vintage analog flight computers is niche but steady, driven by aviation enthusiasts, militaria collectors, and student pilots learning manual dead reckoning. Supply is relatively high due to massive military production contracts during the Cold War, keeping prices accessible. These items move best on broad platforms like eBay or Etsy where they serve as affordable historical artifacts or practical backup tools.
Value Drivers
▲ Complete set including the original protective sleeve and instruction booklet
▲ Authentic US military issue (USAF/USN) appeals directly to militaria collectors
▲ Functional analog tool still utilized by some student pilots for training purposes
Concerns
▼ High market supply caps the value; these were mass-produced and are not rare
▼ Unverified disc rotation — stiffness or loose rivets could affect usability and discount the price
Best Venue
List on eBay or Etsy as a 'Buy It Now' item. Price around $20-$25 to capture buyers looking for a complete, usable example with the manual. Ensure photos clearly show the text on the instrument, the condition of the manual, and the integrity of the central rivet to maximize buyer confidence.
Upside Potential
If the item is in pristine, near-mint condition with absolutely no scratches on the transparent dials and crisp text, it could push toward the $35-$40 range, though it will not reach the $50 premium of a factory-sealed New Old Stock example.
▾Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 2 comps
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.
Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 2 comps
- AeroAntiqueAir Navigation Computer CPU-26A/P, Dead ReckoningLink could not be verified.$20
- eBayVintage CPU 26A/P Computer Air Navigation Dead Reckoning U.S. MilitaryLink could not be verified.$13