Social Whirl

The Social Whirl, manufactured by De-Ta Corporation of Los Angeles in 1934, is a rare and significant pure mechanical pinball machine built as a cocktail table. As one of the earliest known examples of its type, it holds a special place in the history of the game. The lack of information on its designer and theme only adds to its mystique, making this machine a fascinating find for collectors and historians.

One of the most striking features of the Social Whirl is its unique gameplay mechanism. A T-shaped lever allows one player to pull and release it, causing the entire playfield to automatically revolve around to the player seated to their left. The coin slot and the combination ball lift and plunger revolve with the playfield as well, creating a sequence of movement that's both captivating and ingenious. This mechanical marvel showcases the innovative spirit of early pinball designers.

The Social Whirl's cabinet is walnut with a waterproof glass top, built by S. Karpen and Bros., a Chicago furniture manufacturer, adding another layer of interest to this historical artifact. While little is known about its design or theme, the Social Whirl's sheer age and mechanical complexity make it an essential piece for any serious pinball collection.