Where can I find a digital counter for turns?

[kolleamm]

I have a winding machine that needs a counter to count it's turns, subtract backwards also. I did a search but most results were fairly expensive and bulky.
Any help is appreciated.

Thanks in advance

 

[Bystander]

fairly expensive

How large a number is "fairly?"

 

[kolleamm]

How large a number is "fairly?"

The machines are from $50 and up. Money isn't a huge problem it's just the size.

 

[Baluncore]

Why not use a second hand odometer counter out of a scrap car instrument panel.
Remove the worm reduction and drive the end counter directly.
If you use a trip counter you will be able to reset it to zero.

 

[sophiecentaur]

Optical position encoders are very cheap and so is the driving circuitry (if you are hand with a soldering iron).

 

[CWatters]

Some model aircraft builders still use twisted rubber bands for power. Some modify a calculator or cassette tape counter to produce a turns counter..

http://www.hippocketaeronautics.com/hpa_forum/index.php?topic=12897.0

 

[kolleamm]

Thank you for the suggestions everyone, I will try out your ideas.