Has Anyone Seen Anything Like This?

[SonnyPhono]

I came across this phonograph today and don't think I have seen anything like it. It is described as a "Victrola type sound system used on a navy ship". I just don't know anything about it and wondered if anyone here could shed some light on whether or not it is collectible or even what it's function was. It looks like maybe it could have been used for duplicating records? Not sure...hopefully someone will though!

[gregbogantz]

This is a Western Electric turntable set, most often used for playing disc records for radio broadcast. The dial in the center is the fader which can be used easily to fade down one turntable and fade up the other with one turn of the hand.

[SonnyPhono]

Great information! Thanks for taking the time to let me know. Sounds interesting. I wouldn't mind having it for my collection. It is at a local auction coming up here in a couple days...wonder what I should bid. Does anyone know how often these show up or general value compared to more common phonographs?

[ChuckA]

Sonny

Generally Western Electric = BIG $$$$, very rare

This probably came from a theater, the patch panel at the rear is missing. These used probably the best magnetic pickup, they used oil damping on the armature.
I have only seen one in the flesh.

Chuck