'Worst Phonograph Description On Craigslist' contest

[JohnM]

This guy's listing originally said that Uncle George "brought it home from sears (sic)". Over a month ago, I wrote to him and explained at least three reasons why that was impossible. He fought me tooth and nail in a series of email exchanges because that's what Aunt Maud or someone had always told him. I finally gave up and backed out of the conversation. He must have finally looked it up on his own, because in his subsequent listings, "from sears" is gone. I guess he still doesn't believe me about the price! And his shift key must be broken. Doesn't that part about "uncle george" and "grams" and "gramps" just warm the cockles of your heart and make you want to give him your $1300?

http://atlanta.craigslist.org/atl/atq/1643490209.html

"edison player - $1300 (lawrenceville)

edison model 30 amberola cyl.record player, with 100 records. in perfect condition, plays as the day it was purch. 100 -4 min. records in cabinet a beatiful piece of musical history, and where eles will u find this many records in one collection, yes u see a few records that someone has found of grams, and gramps but not an assortment like these very very few... the record player works as good as the day uncle george brought it home"

[JohnM]

This thread is like shooting fish in a barrel and has the potential to become the longest thread on any subject on any discussion board in history.

How much for everything? No, really, everything . . . records, do you have any records? How much for everything? Everything you have . . . machines and records, everything. Is that price for both players AND the records? Everything?

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/atq/1688298623.html

"Edison phonograph player AND Victrola with records - $500 (Monroe)

antique sale
Edison Diamond Disc Phonograph, Model Hepplewhite H-19 with the grill. one of the models of Diamond Disc players which began production around 1911. It is in ok shape for it's age. I have a collection of records for this player. I have four old leather bound folders/holders of Edison and various makes records. Price is for the lot, both players and all the records. Victor Victrola Disc Phonograph, Model VV-X . one of the models Disc players which began production around 1915. Local Pick up only, or I will assist the shipper that you arrange as best I can. Cash only. Serious inq only please. four leather bound albums containing several old 'diamond disc' and RCA and Victor records mixed. I have 38 loose records as well as the four albums with the records in them. Price is for all I have, Some are in good shape and have aged well, some show signs of storage and some are kind of rough.
Email or call 734-299-9579"

[JohnM]

http://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bar/1660554101.html

Early 1900's Edison Phonograph - $400 (Ionia Co)

This is a 1908 patented Edison phonograph in a completly refinished walnut cabinet. It is stained the the original dark walnut and sprayed with pre-catalized lacquar so this looks as it was made. This finish will not show water stains and is quality. ( I put it on my side table 2 years ago and it is still as new and I am not careful with it at all.)
It has the reproducers for the 78's and the ¼" thick Edison diamond cut records and has the adjustment to shut it off at the end of the play. It sounds good and runs at the correct speed without jumping.
The fabric that hides the horn in the center is gone but the strips that hold in are here, I am trying to get it from a supplier in Grand Rapids, it will be incuded if successful.
Other than that it is ready for the home or shop. I can deliver in a van, meet half way or you can pick up here. (I would expect gas reimbersment).
Asking $400.00 or best or will trade for WW1 or WW2 Army items.
Write for more pictures and questions, this has trouble uploading pictures so only one to start.

[JohnM]

Do some more research, aka, 'The Dictaphone With A (Model B) Soul'

http://cleveland.craigslist.org/atq/1683640656.html

"1912 Dictaphone (Medina)

Rare 1912 Thomas Edison Dictaphone. Model B Soul, Type X. Serial # 993240. It is in great condition. Comes with two original wax rollers and the original Earphone piece. This is a piece of History. Would be a great investment for the right person. Cord need to be replaced due to a few cracks. I have done some research and have not found another one like this. There is no rust and the original paint is beautiful. This is a rare opportunity. I am told this Dictaphone could bring up to $1,200.00. Make offer please. Pick up only. Cash only."

[JohnM]

World's thickest record! What would you pick it up with? A crane? No wonder he won't "delivers" it!

http://cleveland.craigslist.org/fuo/1654318721.html

"Thomas Edison Record Player - $800 (Grafton)

I have a thomas edison record player it a wind up also inclued 24' thick record $ 800 o.b.o you must pick up ( NO DELIVERS ) Call. (440) 322-9778"

[JohnM]

http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/atq/1645101218.html

"Record Player Cabinet - $49 (Robinson Twp. )

Early 1900's cherry wood cabinet no phonograph and shelf included
scalped legs, top opens and back door in good condition with original handles."

Why do people always say "cherry wood", not just "cherry"? They must still be having a problem with the indigenous peoples in Robinson Township, Pennsylvania!

[JohnM]

They were doing OK, and then . . . Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

http://youngstown.craigslist.org/atq/1678944419.html

"antique phonograph Brunswick - $200 (Austintown,Ohio)

antique phonograph(Brunswick)
plays records ,wind handel
1917-1918"

[JohnM]

Who's selling this . . . Norm Crosby? To be fair, I know a millionaire collector who says, "In tack".

http://cincinnati.craigslist.org/atq/1654856920.html

"Original Victor talking machine for sale (Cincinnati, Oh (Madisonville))

This victrola is in a Oak cabin. Two double-sided records included. Needle in tack. Working turnstyle but no sound. May need to be greased and cleaned. The orginal Victor plate in tack has serial number and date of 1904. Available for viewing 5-7 pm Monday-Friday by appointment only. Price negotiable."

[JohnM]

Thanks for the considered advice!

http://nashville.craigslist.org/atq/1673690170.html

Antique Phonograph - $150 (Pegram)

Antique phonograph, beautiful woodwork, all parts. Restore it to play vinal, change it into a liquor cabinet or just enjoy it like it is.
Call 615-352-5451 or email to see it. Cash only.

[JohnM]

Wow! This Diamond Disc Phonograph is only nine years later than the 1879 VV-230 in a previous post! I think I shall reward you for your ignorance by paying you $1500 for this "execellent" "real oak" Phonograph!

http://nashville.craigslist.org/atq/1665695113.html

Thomas Edison Phonograph - $1500 (Lebanon)

THOMAS EDISON PHONOGRAPH FROM 1888.IN EXECELLENT CONDITION.EVERYTHING STILL IN WORKING ORDER.REAL OAK.HAS NOT BEEN REFINISHED STILL IN ORIGINAL CONDITION. $1500.00 OBO CONTACT MELISSA AT 615-995-4365