This version of the Spectrum was assembled in Argentina, and replaced the CZ-2000.

It is functionally and technically the same as the official UK Spectrum. The only differences to the Spectrum are the addition of two din plugs for joysticks, wired up to the Sinclair 1 & 2 standard. Next to this is the red reset button. The computer is business as usual at the rear, and has the 9V power socket, the ear and mic sockets for loading and saving, and the expansion slot for peripherals.

Czerweny Electronics, a subsidiary of Czerweny, were primarily an engine manufacturer who produced a series of calculators before being dissolved due to a lack of success. The company later turned its attention to computers, and noted the success of Sinclair Research in the UK and their range of small computers. Negotiations were sensitive due to the UK and Argentina having no diplomatic relations. Sinclair stipulated that they could not bear the Sinclair name, so the range was named CZ, trade marked by Czerweny.

The first machines, the CZ-1500 and CZ-2000 were supplied by Timex in Portugal. From the factories that were providing computer parts for IBM Argentina, Czerweny Electronics was reformed. Tooling and components were assembled for Czerweny's own version of the Spectrum. Each imported part was replaced by local ones.

Between 1984 and 1985, the company produced 4,000 machines a month, while continuing to supply IBM. However disaster struck the factory in 1986 when an electrical fault destroyed the plant, resulting in the product being off the market for a considerable period.

This setback, plus stiff competition from Commodore and the rise of the PC Compatible, meant by 1987 the CZ Spectrum was discontinued.

Manufacturer: Czerweny
Date: 1984

This exhibit has a reference ID of CH69560. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

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