what are the correct rotations for an older style combination safe?

Answer 1

You will have to look up the info. There were more than 20 manufacturers of combination safes over the years. There were also safes with combinations from 2 to 9 numbers. They also had different turning combinations to them. There are too many variables right now. Please provide more information.

The above post is generally correct for a Master Lock combination lock.

Answer 2

Normally, you need to turn the dial right (clockwise) past zero (twice, usually) to the first number. Then left (counterclockwise) past the first number to the second number. Finally, right to the third number. The only tricky bits are turning past zero before stopping at the first number and making sure to pass the first number before stopping on the second. You can open the lock as soon as you hit the third number; you don't need to hit any particular other mark first.