What A Deal Someone Got

[gramophone78]

Well I have seen these in a very "blue moon".However,I have never seen one with it's original red needle tin and manual.What I find even more unreal is it has it's original BOX!!!!!.Someone got a very early example of this Belgium marketed machine.They were also quite expensive when new.

[JohnM]

I had a Colibri when I first started collecting back in 1967. It was probably the fourth machine I ever owned. I loved that little thing! Took it with me everywhere I went. I've never seen one in an original box with needle tin and instructions, though! Heavy for their size, they are extremely well made. Mine was covered in a black leatherette.

[gramophone78]

From what little I know.The early model "pre-orthophonic" reproducer was avaiable in a black metal or nickel plated case.The later model had a leatherette case and the leather strap had a "Colibri" name embossed in it.Also,the reproducer was of a later style than this one we see.Yes,they are heavy and very well made.They may be the best make of this type of machine.Based on what that complete (missing leather case)Mikiphone just sold for.I would have to think this is not too far behind given all the extra's that you never see.I would love to have this.

[JohnM]

The example I had utilized the same reproducer as one on eBay. The carrying strap was missing on mine so I can't speak to it's appearance. The motors on these are as smooth as silk and dead quiet, although the sound quality is a bit attenuated and buzzy. I've never seen one with the later reproducer you mention -- is it an enclosed type?

[gramophone78]

Yes it is a closed type.Here is what the later one looks like.As you can see the leather handle is a one piece type and has the name on it.

colibri_3.jpg (53.42 KiB) Viewed 1160 times

[JohnM]

Yes, mine was exactly like the red one, except it was black, and it did have the earlier open reproducer. There must have been a transition.

[gramophone78]

John,Yours may be just that.Here is another with a later "closed face" reproducer and a what looks like a "duplex" end to play both lateral and vertical cut records.Note,it is written that the later style is post 1930.