Bell & Howell Black Apple II Plus “Darth Vader” – Complete Working System with Dual Drives, Monitor & Backpack!
If you’ve been looking for a really nice example of the iconic Bell & Howell Black Apple II Plus, this is one worth taking a closer look at!
Often referred to by collectors as the “Darth Vader” Apple II, these computers were manufactured by Apple exclusively for Bell & Howell, primarily for the educational market.
With their distinctive dark cases, black keyboards, matching black disk drives, and specialized accessories, they’ve become one of the most desirable variations of the Apple II family.
This particular machine is exceptionally clean, fully operational, and comes as a complete system with two matching disk drives, the original Bell & Howell Backpack, and a Magnavox Computer Monitor 80!
EXCEPTIONAL COSMETIC CONDITION!
Let’s start with the case, because this one is really beautiful!
The original textured case is in outstanding condition, with very few scratches or signs of wear considering its age. The finish remains remarkably well preserved, the Bell & Howell badge looks fantastic, and the original black keyboard presents beautifully.
Finding these machines in this kind of cosmetic condition, especially with their matching accessories, isn’t easy.
Computer Serial Number: A2S1-27709 and is the older black label!
FULLY WORKING AND REFURBISHED!
This isn’t an untested computer being sold as-is because someone found it in an attic.
The computer is fully operational, and both disk drives have been cleaned, serviced, calibrated, and tested.
If you’ve followed my restorations, you know I put considerable time into the vintage Apple computers I sell.
I don’t just wipe down a computer and hope it works!
My restoration approach emphasizes careful inspection, cleaning, testing, and addressing the common age-related problems that affect these machines after more than four decades.
Particular attention is paid to the disk drives, where properly cleaned read/write heads, serviced mechanical components, and correct calibration can make an enormous difference in reliability.
An interesting historical detail: the power supply in this machine dates to 1979!
I make every effort to preserve the character and originality of these machines while making them dependable and enjoyable to use.
ORIGINAL BELL & HOWELL BACKPACK
This machine includes the distinctive Bell & Howell Backpack, an accessory that really sets these systems apart.
Designed for the educational market, the Backpack attaches to the rear of the Apple II and offers additional capabilities, including:
* Integrated power switching and outlets for peripherals
* Audio inputs and volume controls
* External speaker and headphone connectivity
* Video connections
* Cassette connections
It’s an important and recognizable part of the Bell & Howell Apple II system, and many surviving computers no longer have one.
TWO MATCHING BLACK DISK II DRIVES – BOTH SERVICED AND CALIBRATED!
This system includes two matching black Bell & Howell Disk II drives, complete with their classic rainbow ribbon cables.
These aren’t ordinary beige drives painted black. They’re the correct black Bell & Howell versions!
Both drives have been cleaned, calibrated, and tested for proper operation.
Their relatively low serial numbers are also worth noting:
Drive 1: A2M0003-21980
Drive 2: A2M0003-29551
Having two matching black drives, complete with rainbow cables, makes this a particularly attractive and collectible setup.
MAGNAVOX COMPUTER MONITOR 80 INCLUDED!
Also included is the vintage Magnavox Computer Monitor 80 shown in the photos.
The monitor makes this a complete, period-appropriate desktop computer system rather than just a standalone Apple II.
Its light-colored housing provides a great contrast to the dark Bell & Howell computer and drives.
And of course, having a monitor included means the winning buyer will be that much closer to having a complete vintage Apple II setup ready to enjoy.
BONUS – CHOOSE ONE OF TWO APPLE II EXPANSION CARDS!
Here’s something else I’m including to make this offering a little more interesting.
The winning buyer gets to choose ONE of the following two expansion cards!
OPTION 1 – Rare, Fully Loaded Apple Integer BASIC ROM Card
A desirable card for collectors interested in the original Integer BASIC environment and early Apple II software.
OPTION 2 – Apple II 16K Language Card
The classic 16K Language Card, which adds memory and provides expanded language and software capabilities.
Whether you’re interested in earlier Apple II history or greater software flexibility, you get to choose the card that best fits your needs.
One card is included with the sale — the winning buyer makes the selection.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
* Bell & Howell Black Apple II Plus computer – Serial #A2S1-27709
* Original Bell & Howell Backpack
* Two matching black Bell & Howell Disk II drives
* Rainbow ribbon cables
* Magnavox Computer Monitor 80
* Power supply dated 1979
* Your choice of ONE expansion card: fully loaded Integer BASIC ROM Card or 16K Apple II Language Card
Computer fully working. Both disk drives cleaned, calibrated, and tested!
WHY BUY FROM ME?
I’ve been collecting, restoring, and working with vintage Apple computers for years.
I take pride in the condition of the equipment I sell, the work that goes into refurbishing it, and making sure these wonderful machines have a chance to be enjoyed for another generation.
These computers deserve more than a quick cleaning and a power-on test.
You can learn more about my vintage Apple computer work at VintageAppleComputers.com.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Bell & Howell Black Apple II is already an iconic piece of Apple history.
Finding one in this kind of cosmetic condition, with its original Backpack, two matching black Disk II drives with rainbow ribbon cables, a vintage monitor, and your choice of a desirable expansion card makes this a fantastic collector’s package.
Add the fact that the computer is fully functional and the disk drives have been professionally cleaned and calibrated, and you have a system that’s ready to be appreciated rather than another restoration project.
Whether you’re a longtime Apple II enthusiast, a serious collector, or someone who’s always wanted a complete Black Apple II setup, this is a great opportunity.
Please take a close look at the photos, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Thanks for looking, and happy offerding!
Local pickup or professionally packaged and shipped
Monitor will be packaged in its own box
