Victrola VV III

[Canuk Phonographs]

I wondered what that was for also. I wish I had an answer, but the flag holder idea works just fine. The machine itself is very similar to the VV 1-1 or “Victrolita”, which took the place of the VV-IV in the U.S. catalog with the introduction of the Orthophonic machines.
I didn’t think to look at the auction. Is the bottom open?

Steve

Yes. The bottom is open. You only see the wooden horn.

[ChesterCheetah18]

I wondered what that was for also. I wish I had an answer, but the flag holder idea works just fine. The machine itself is very similar to the VV 1-1 or “Victrolita”, which took the place of the VV-IV in the U.S. catalog with the introduction of the Orthophonic machines.
I didn’t think to look at the auction. Is the bottom open?

Steve

Yes. The bottom is open. You only see the wooden horn.

Just like the 1-1. Thanks.

Steve

[Governor Flyball]

I wonder of it was a later add on for the pivot for a later electric tonearm? From the late 20's there various accessories to add a magnetic or crystal pickup and tonearm. The electric pickup could then be connected to the home radio receiver.

[JerryVan]

I wonder of it was a later add on for the pivot for a later electric tonearm? From the late 20's there various accessories to add a magnetic or crystal pickup and tonearm. The electric pickup could then be connected to the home radio receiver.

That's a great theory! I'm betting that's what it is.

[Jacobean]

Per the Victor/Victrola database, Victrola IV models sold in Canada up to about 1920 use the same US "VV-IV" dataplate, with an added Berliner tag. Around 1920, a "VV-III" model designator was used for these machines, with the addition of "C" to the serial number (assumedly indicating for Canadian export). In early 1925, the "V-III" designation was used for the "VV 1-1" US models, again with an added "C".
This is solely based on observational and submitted data, as no production records have survived for export models. It would seem that the "IV" models, as well as the "1-1" models sold in Canada were produced in Camden (there are no physical differences as far as I can tell), but it is conceivable that the Montreal plant was making these cabinets. However, given that Victor in the US jobbed the the "IV" cabinet construction to outside suppliers, it would seem to make more economic sense to produce them in volume from one supplier and ship where needed. Montreal may very well have installed the motors and hardware into the empty cabinets destined for sale in Canada.