Excelsior Phonographs, manufactured by Philipp Richard, Fabrik für Erzeugnisse der Feinmechanik, Cologne, were first offered at the Leipzig Autumn Fair in August 1899. The early, more expensive models are very rare today. Frequently seen are the small machines, indeed similar to Columbia's Type Q. I believe that the EWC decal was introduced in 1901.gramophoneshane wrote:I've seen 2 or 3 different Excelsior machines, but the "pearl" wasn't one of them. I think this is the first Excelsior I've seen with 2/4 min gearing.
The other models I've seen were all loosely based on Columbia models. They have all been painted black, with red & gold pinstripes, and have had the EWC decal instead of the name Excelsior.
I'm guessing the Gloria was probably designed after a Columbia too, but wonder if it played Concert cylinders only or had a inter-changable mandrel for Standards as well?
The "Gloria" had a rather unique design - especially the bedplate, protected by utility patent in September 1900. The mandrel wasn't interchangeable. I only have a drawing of it.
From 1907/08 „Excelsiorwerk“, Fabrik für Feinmechanik, G.m.b.H. (designation since late 1899), exported a renamed model range to England: The "Pearl", the "Ruby" and the "Diamond."
I will post a few scans later.