FOR SALE: Polyphon-Automat 12 - $1,995 shipped

Post by **Roaring20s** » Mon Mar 18, 2024 12:28 am

Automatic phonographs like this were used in Hotels, Taverns and Restaurants. A simple vending machine to enjoy mechanical musical entertainment. For a phonograph that was at the mercy of the general public and two world wars it has been well cared for. It will play a 10” record for a US Nickel.

This German made Polyphon-Automat 12 was likely made just prior to WWI. One of the photos shows how it looked in the 1910 catalog. Note that the design of the tonearm rest has been simplified from the 1910 version.

Condition report …

I have pictured an old repair, a replaced a tooth in its winding gear. Also pictured is the gear that drives the governor, it shows several damaged teeth. Both of these operate as they should. When winding, you can feel a difference in the winding gear’s fit. Due to shrinkage in the drawer, thin extensions have been added to the sides, they now rest on the corresponding rails without binding. The used needle cup is made with a hole in it for disposal of the needle. There is no evidence of a receptacle under it and a small screw top jar was affixed to contain them. The veneer is thin and there are several inconspicuous sections missing. The horn was made from new and old materials to resemble a European styled horn.

This first video shows how the motor operates. You will see the coin fall into the cup, its weight sets the motor in action, then the coin is drops from the cup into the locked drawer. The other moving parts work to lower the needle onto the record and finally the needle is returned via a spring to the starting position, locking the tonearm until another coin is inserted.

http://www.ecommerceplayer.com/MediaPla ... 3a3dfecedf

This second video shows how the phonograph performs with a record having good surface gloss. A dull record will cause about 10 to 15 seconds of drag until normal speed resumes.

http://www.ecommerceplayer.com/MediaPla ... 2f66eb517f

Size …

The base is 17.75" square, the overall height with the horn is 28", the back of the horn with the bracket adds 9" to the overall depth.

This is a remarkable device and fairly uncommon in the US.

$1995 includes shipping in the USA
Expertly packed.

Thanks for looking!
James.