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I originally purchased this Victor Model XIa Type M at an auction for parts. It sat for a while as I worked on restoring an Edison W-19. The longer it sat, the more I thought about it, and finally I decided I would try to refurbish it. The finish was mostly off, as was the stain in many areas. The veneer and backing boards were peeling up and ruffled on both sides and the doors. The rear legs were broken off (see pic), and in general it was a mess. The beastie fought me all the way, but in the end I'd rather like to think it was worth the effort. See pics.

Nicely done! I'm sure it was a labor of love and worth the effort. Jerry Blais

Thanks for the kind words, Jerry. I had my doubts at times. The most crazy thing about the restoration was that the reproducer mica gasket was in pliable, perfect condition and reusable when I rebuilt the reproducer!

Absolutely stunning! Amazing, too, about the sound box condition; it must have had divine protection, compared to the cabinet. Nice work, indeed.

I own a VV-XI model G, slightly earlier than yours, and I'm puzzled by the three holes in the back wall (left) of your turntable compartment, near the needle tray. Any idea what they're for?

Good eyes There was a light mounted there, two screw holes and electric cord hole. There was also a cabinet light. I decided not to replace the lights as I'll let the next owner determine whether they want to rewire and re-install the lights. Can't believe you spotted them. Thanks for the encouragement.

Nice save... from a piece of crap to a nicely preserved machine... Congrats.

The three holes in the back might be where an optional light attachment was mounted...

I see you already answered that question, just before I sent my response. Take a pic of the light and if it's an original, it might be worth re-wiring and re-installing it...

Yes, the lights are original, but as I don't have room for another, sadly, this one has to go to a new home. A small condo with 5 console models is getting a bit cramped. Hmm, maybe the missus won't miss that old treadle machine. . .

After all that work to get this back to respectable, it would be a shame to let it go for whatever you might get. I'm with you, who needs a treadle sewing machine, unless it's a Columbia treadle phonograph...

Beautiful restoration! Now we can see what they looked like new.

I'd say find someone else and spread the addiction if you can't keep it--a pity to scrap your treadle sewing machine, that's perhaps the only sewing machine ever made that doesn't look like modern plastic junk!

Great score on the VV-XI too. They are pretty cool!

Great job!! You can be very proud of your talents bringing this phonograph back to life.