Automatics 'Skill Score

The Automatics pinball machine, manufactured by Hoopers' Automatics of London, England, is a rare and intriguing example of early electro-mechanical (EM), flipperless pinball design. While its exact date of production remains unknown, circumstantial evidence points to the late 1930s: spring bumpers, which this machine has, began appearing on U.S. pin games in 1937, and half-size backboxes like this one's fell out of use by the end of 1938.

Gameplay on the Automatics is likely straightforward, with players feeding in old English pennies (1-cent play) to compete for points. The rectangular backglass boasts an unusual score dial with a rotating pointer that indicates the player's current score, ranging from 500 to 25,000 in 500-point increments. This unique feature would have been a novelty for players of the era and adds to the machine's charm.

Little is known about the theme or design aesthetic of the Automatics, but its half-size backbox suggests that it may have been intended as a more compact or space-saving option for operators. Despite its unknown history, this early EM pinball remains an attractive target for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to understand the evolution of the game from its humble beginnings.