"Sonat" Soundbox

[Gramtastic]

Hi,I am looking for information on an unusual soundbox I have. it is a "Sonat" (abbreviation of "So Natural" ????) it is unusual in that the bar from the diaphragm to the needle holder has a slit in it and the needle holder has an offset hole. The needle "screw" comes off a small rod which seems to be designed to grip the needle in some way. As you can see it seems to be made by "Graham" but internet searches for Graham and Sonat don't come up with much. It is beautifully made of plated brass and seems to be a good quality soundbox.
I would be grateful for any info on it and the manufacturer "Graham" eg did they make whole machines or was this an after market accessory to upgrade an existing machine ?. Thanks

[Phono48]

The "Sonat" was made by Alfred Graham, of Crofton Park, London, who later became "Amplion"

See the year 1922 in this link:

http://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Alfred_Graham_and_Co

Barry

[Gramtastic]

Thanks Barry - very useful info. I had never realised that Algraphones were from Alfred Graham ! It's obvious when you know !!
"Every day's a school day !"

[estott]

It appears to have a "Lifebelt" connector built into it

[Damfino59]

I like that the needle bar looks like the point of a old steel dip pen.

[Marco Gilardetti]

"Sonat" (abbreviation of "So Natural" ????)

I'd say it is the latin word for "it sounds".