This isn't actually a model railroad item but it would certainly look cool on a military-themed layout control panel. The question is: what is it?
It belongs to an elderly friend who bought it as surplus in 1971 (I saw the receipt) with the idea of maybe using parts out of it. It has a big motor-driven sequencing relay and some vacuum tubes, probably 1960's technology? It has remained intact and has a bunch of connecting cables. My friend is thinking of selling it on Ebay, although he seems reluctant to give up unique esoteric gadgetry with nostalgic cold war sentimentality. He would probably feel better about selling it to someone who was genuinely knowledgable and interested in it.
Our best guess is that it is a field tester for systems on military aircraft. It has serial number "3" so it may be an uncommon version. I haven't had any success with internet research on it. I emailed the long-time manufacturer Kearfott, but they did not reply. Maybe they don't remember what it is, anyway.
I thought I would inquire here because there are so many experienced electronic geniuses on this forum with diverse interests and vast expertise on many different subjects.
