Treff-Gloria (speedboat)

Treff-Gloria, a rare and enigmatic electro-mechanical pinball machine from German manufacturer Treff Automaten, is a fascinating artifact of early pinball history. Its exact production date remains unconfirmed (previously listed as 1953, though that has not been verified), making it challenging to place within the broader timeline of pinball evolution. Nevertheless, this unique speedboat-themed machine boasts several distinctive features that set it apart from its contemporaries.

One of the most notable aspects of Treff-Gloria is its extensive use of flippers - a staggering six in total, operated by two separate buttons on either side of the playfield, each firing three flippers simultaneously. The design allows for complex and challenging gameplay, as players must navigate multiple flipper banks to control the ball's trajectory. Additionally, the machine features ten passive bumpers and a single kick-out hole, further adding to its mechanical complexity.

The Treff-Gloria's beach and boating theme is reflected in its artwork, with the backglass depicting a man driving a speedboat over water in front of a populated beach, while the playfield itself shows activities such as swimming, driving, polo, and golf. A coin tube payout system, visible just inside the front door, pays out to a cup below the front of the cabinet. While little is known about this machine beyond its technical specifications, it remains an intriguing specimen for pinball enthusiasts seeking to uncover the secrets of early electro-mechanical designs.