Question about top wind AJs.

[Jerry B.]

Why do we see so many top wind AJs with brass elbows and later horns? Didn't all top wind AJs come from the factory with leather elbows and corresponding horns? Does any period correct Columbia catalogs show an AJ with a brass elbow? I'd love to see comments.

Thanks, Jerry B.

[Shawn]

Catalog data is a directionally correct indication of what really was issued. I am sure there were exceptions. As well, I am sure there were later "upgrades."

That being said, here is a later rear-wind Columbia AJ, shown with a leather elbow. This would indicate that the earlier top-wind was probably only issued with a leather elbow.

For reference, here is the earlier top-wind AJ - also with a leather elbow.

Presumably the same or similar cut used in a December 1902 Ad

For reference, here is the fist picture I have of a Columbia AJ with a brass elbow. It is the side-wind version.

Shawn

[Jerry B.]

I bet over half the top winds that I've seen at the shows or in collections have brass elbows and mating horns. That's a bunch of machines that were "upgraded." It's either that or parts for the early AJ are difficult to locate and recent owners take a quick route to complete a project machine. I don't recall a Trademark machine being passed off as upgraded with later elbow and horn.

Jerry B.

[Shawn]

We'll, Sears was used to "reissue" earlier machine like the first model AK. It is not out of the realm of possibility that they did so with the AJ.

Again, it's really hard to say sometimes what happened over time.

We can say conclusively that the top wind AJ was originally issued with a leather elbow. After that original issue, it is up to further research and speculation.

Shawn

[fonograph]

I checked my AJ and it has the leather elbow. But it also has the "on/off" selector on the top of the machine. I've never seen another one like it.

[Phonomark]

I have one with the on/off and speed controls on top. It is the very first iteration of the Columbia AJ Top Wind with a unique plate motor design.

Also, this earliest version of the AJ has the decal, top cabinet release mechanism, and decorative handle on different sides than the very next or more commonly seen AJ top wind model. It's a very unique and rare AJ Top Wind indeed.

Looks like yours might be missing the speed control knob. I can document mine for you if you are interested.

Mark

[fonograph]

Thanks Mark Thats great to know.
Can you post a close up of the speed control knob.

[Phonomark]

Here's a closeup.

[fonograph]

Gotcha! Thanks Mark

[jboger]

I see Columbia used a record clamp on these early models, as did Victor. They look similar. Are they interchangeable?