Commodore 64C Ultimate: the real molds of 1986 emerge for this FPGA renaissance
We already knew the C64 Ultimate in the original “breadbin” format. Commodore, led by Peri Fractic, has just announced a complementary version that will excite purists: the Commodore 64C Ultimate. A return to the slim format from 1986 to 1994, the one that defined the aesthetic of personal computers for an entire decade .
🏭 The real mussels from 1986 - found and repurchased
It’s the detail that makes this announcement extraordinary. To faithfully reproduce the C64C case, Commodore did not simply scan an original copy to remake molds. The team found andpurchased the original plastic molding tools dating from 1986-those that were used at the original factory. These tools survived an auction, a factory fire, two transfers of ownership across Europe, and 40 years of forgetfulness.
The result is striking: the new hulls reproduce not only the exact shape of the original C64C, but also its small molding imperfections characteristics of the period. This is not a replica - it's a continuation.
⚙️ Under the hood: FPGA cycle-accurate
Like its breadbin big brother, the C64C Ultimate is powered by a FPG implementation A cycle-accurateof Commodore 64 hardware. This means that every processor cycle, every sound quirk of the SID, every graphic behavior of the VIC-II is reproduced with total precision. The original games, demos and software run exactly like on the real hardware of the time.
💰 Editions and prices
- BASIC Beige: the historic color, AZERTY/QWERTY keyboard - $299.99
- Starlig ht Edition: translucent shell with integrated LEDs - $349.99
- Founder's Edition: 24-karat gold finish, numbered - $499.99
Pre-orders are open on the official Commodore website. Expected delivery end of 2026. For C64 fans who found the breadbin format of 1982 lacking the clean style of the 80s-90s, the C64C Ultimate is the answer they've been waiting for. >Sources: Time Extension - Retro Handhelds