Drip Pan Gem Reproducers: Some History Needed

[JerryVan]

I have a "Drip Pan Gem", (a.k.a. Model A Gem). The reproducer has never looked 100% correct to me. The diameter of the top piece looks as if it's been cut down. Especially since the top plate is nickel plated, but the edges show brass, as if it's been machined and the nickel therefore removed. Doing a little bit of research only confuses me more. I'm finding 3 or 4 variations on Model A reproducers, as below. Can someone give a little history on these???

[JerryVan]

In the order shown above;

#1) Recessed face top plate

#2) Small diameter top plate, sitting above carriage arm.

#3) Small diameter top plate, sitting flush with carriage arm.

#4) Large diameter top plate, sitting on top of carriage arm.

Mine mostly resembles #2, but with a cut-down appearing top plate.

[JerryVan]

By the way, when I say "top plate", I mean this piece...

[rgordon939]

The early tube plate had a smaller diameter that the later ones. This was to help seal the gaskets.

Rich Gordon

[FellowCollector]

For what it's worth, below is a picture of my drip pan Gem which I purchased from the family of the original owner and it remains today as I believe it did when it was new with exception of the one missing screw in the reproducer throat flange as seen in the picture. My reproducer appears to be the same configuration as seen in your last picture.

Doug

[rgordon939]

In the order shown above;

#1) Recessed face top plate

#2) Small diameter top plate, sitting above carriage arm.

#3) Small diameter top plate, sitting flush with carriage arm.

#4) Large diameter top plate, sitting on top of carriage arm.

Mine mostly resembles #2, but with a cut-down appearing top plate.

#1 is the Gem Speaker normally found on cased Gems from 1901 to 1902 when the Gem Speaker was replaced with the Model-B Reproducer.

#2 & 3 are the small diameter tube plates that were on the early Gem Model-A’s.

#4 is the large diameter tube plate found on later Gem Model-A’s up to 1901.

Rich Gordon

[Phonofreak]

i have a Branded Case Gem with a slightly different one from the Drip Pan Gem. It is very similar, but a slight recess on the top cover. Also, there are little slots for adjustment. My Gem recorder has the same configuration. Were these made the same time as the Gem speaker?
Harvey Kravitz

[rgordon939]

Do you have pictures of them?

Rich Gordon

[FellowCollector]

Here is my "branded case" Edison Gem.

Note the recessed reproducer with adjustment provision and the interesting end gate for this particular version of the model A Gem.

This Edison Gem is completely original.

Doug

[rgordon939]

Doug that is the correct reproducer for an early Edison Gem Branded case Model-A.

Rich Gordon