Columbia Desk Grafonola ( Regent ?) - Seattle

[De Soto Frank]

Not mine...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-COLUMBI ... 1332682123?

[HisMastersVoice]

Seems a little pricy for such an impractical machine. I sold mine for $300. It's a beastly thing, sort of like finding a place to park a '64 Cadillac in your house

[brianu]

yours was pretty nice as I recall, and 300 was very cheap in my opinion. you're right that the issue with these is the size (and the transportation), but I think there's still quite a bit of interest (and practical use, considering they double as furniture... that can also support other machines). and this one is oak in a mission style, which I think also adds some value.

[HisMastersVoice]

yours was pretty nice as I recall, and 300 was very cheap in my opinion. you're right that the issue with these is the size (and the transportation), but I think there's still quite a bit of interest (and practical use, considering they double as furniture... that can also support other machines). and this one is oak in a mission style, which I think also adds some value.

I completely missed the fact that this is a mission-style Regent! Yes, that would add some value, then.

[gramophone78]

WOW!!!....I wish I had room for this rarely seem model. Someone near Seattle (besides me) should make the seller an offer.

[Phonofreak]

Yes, the Desk Regent in Mission Oak is a scarce machine. It looks complete down to the Mission knobs. Since this has louvers and the one piece tone arm, I think this machine was made in 1912-13. I have this machine but with a lid and double doors. I bought mine about 12 years ago from an OTAPS sale for $400.00. I couldn't believe that nobody jumped on it. The seller hated that machine because it was big and bulky. I saw and got a real treasure. I display smaller Columbia machines on it. Yes, it was really difficult to transport this machine and put in my living room. But it was worth the inconvenience. If someone in my area(Seattle) see the rarity and potential, this is a real bargain. Those who own a Craftsman home with Mission furniture, will find this a nice addition. Just my thoughts.
Harvey Kravitz

[marcapra]

Congrats! This is the first time I've seen a discussion of this model without someone complaining that they can't use it as a desk. They are meant to be used as a piece of furniture, or as Columbia described it, a "library table". I also own one in mahogany from the 1909 era. Mine is in nice shape, both mechanically and cabinet. I bought mine for $800 about ten years ago, but would be willing to sell it for $500. I will also deliver to the APS show in August if someone is interested. Will send pics on demand. thanks, Marc.

[miker2001]

Seller posted on CL too.

http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/atq/5100852137.html