The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Just acquired this machine and need you experts to review the pictures and tell me what you see? I already know the reproducer is incorrect. What else do you notice? Thanks, Roy

The #2 reproducer is not original to the machine; but that does not mean it is "incorrect". The #2 was a popular upgrade for owners of older machines.

Also, the backboard on the cabinet suggests that it might have been intended to hold sheet music rather than records. What do the shelves look like inside; and is there a needle cup in the door?

Nice machine!

Bill

Looks like you did just fine to me. The Victrola 2 may have been an upgrade but it would have been a nickeled one. If the machine were mine, I would advertise in our Trader for a nickel plated Exhibition. You might offer yours as a partial trade. I've always thought that the humpback Victor II is one of the most attractive Victor machines. Do you know why collectors call that style a "humpback?"

Jerry Blais

Just out of curiosity: what's the deal with the plated tonearm and horn parts? Are they discolored nickel, or is something else going on? Probably a stupid question, but did the II have only a one-spring motor? My "E" has a small 2-spring.

Best,
Fran

fran604g wrote:Just out of curiosity: what's the deal with the plated tonearm and horn parts? Are they discolored nickel, or is something else going on? Probably a stupid question, but did the II have only a one-spring motor? My "E" has a small 2-spring.

Best,
Fran

It looks to me that the tone arm and horn elbow have been buffed down to the brass, with bits of nickel remaining. The same might have been done to the shell of the sound box, or a gold one was gotten to "match" the arm.

First of all, thanks to all for your comments. I can always count on you members for assistance.

Jerry, I do not know why they call it a "humpback"; please elucidate!

I installed a nickel Exhibition that I already owned. It appears to be correct.

Also, the metal pieces just appeared to be tarnished. A little metal polish and they appear to be coming out bright nickel. (See pic)

The cabinet indeed looks to be for sheet music, not records.

Now, the big question. Did I pay to much ($800) for the machine and cabinet?

Thanks again, Roy

You did just fine at $800. Want your money back? (I didn't think so! ). It's call a humpback Victor II because of the raised panel on the back where the back bracket mounts. It must have been less expensive to put a swell in the cabinet rather than change the back bracket casting. Jerry Blais

Spent the afternoon and evening cleaning and polishing. The nickel plating is coming out great; once polished I spray it with a clear coat so that it will not tarnish again. It's looking good! Will post photos when completed. Roy

Congratulations, Roy. That's a great price for a nice II.

Best,
Fran

The machine cleaned up nicely. Have a look! Thanks again for all the help and advice! Roy