Exceptional 1902 Victor R Phonograph Complete, Correct & All A Gem
Item History & Price
Reference Number: Avaluer:4351997 |
While it may be convenient for us to believe that innovative product design began a dozen years ago with the launch of the iPhone, the practice of fusing form with function actually goes back a bit further than that. There were the Great Pyramids, of course. They were around before the iPhone. And the abacus. That was invented before Apple even went public. And the Papal Basilica of St. Peter. I don't think Michelangelo even knew Steve Jobs. So yes, the trend has legs, as the...y say in the movie business. Which is why I get a bit giddy when I'm able to present a top shelf assortment of technical antiquity like I've got lined up for you this week. My only regret is that it may be a tough act for me to follow, but I'll worry about that next week. So check it all out. Seven splendid ancient examples of industry running headlong into art. And don't forget, you can click this link to quickly add and then save me to your favorite seller list and Ebay will automatically send you updates when I put similar new auctions online.
Here's a beautiful 1902 Victor R disc phonograph that's complete and wholly original. Every aspect of this diminutive, perfectly proportioned primitive phonograph is factory correct, including the oxide-striped bedplate, the oxide-striped support arm; the oxide-striped corner fittings; the oxide-striped record clamp; the early zinc horn; and the uncommon Exhibition Jr. reproducer.
Pre-dog data plate, threaded spindle and low four-digit serial number suggest this was probably manufactured during 1902 -- the first year of R production.
Condition is excellent throughout, as you can see in the pictures. Original horn paint, original turntable felt, original motor, original felt buffers on the underside of the motorboard, original gear train and governor, original brake, original leather brake shoe, original cabinet finish, etc.
The cabinet is excellent, with an original finish that exhibits only minimal wear. All of the oxide-treated corner covers are intact, and their tiger-striped finish is still prominent. The paper license on the underside of the baseboard is original, and as you can see it's in nearly perfect condition.
The phonograph runs well and has no trouble making it through a record. The Exhibition Jr. reproducer has been carefully rebuilt with supple gaskets and sounds great.
I'll include with the phonograph an early Victor record. Other 7", 8" and 10" records are available on Ebay and elsewhere.
I've been selling and shipping antique phonographs, antique radios and antique scientific apparatus for more than 25 years. When you purchase an antique phonograph from me, you'll receive a phonograph that arrives safely because it's been carefully packed (by me, not by some well-intentioned but nonetheless confounded, doe-eyed teenager working at the UPS store who wouldn't know a phonograph from a farm tool), and you'll receive a phonograph that includes thorough but easy-to-understand set-up and operating instructions, so you won't be left scratching your head, trying to figure out how it works. Sure, you can probably get a lower price from Joe and Janet Barn-Find, but when your "bargain" arrives broken, and without any hint of how it works or how you might be able to put it back together, you'll realize that you really do get exactly what you pay for.
That's about it. I will carefully prep everything for shipping and pack everything carefully and properly. Overseas bidders, please contact me in advance for a shipping quote. Auction participants with no prior feedback history, or with hidden feedback, should contact me before placing a bid. Buyer prepays and includes shipping.
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