Columbia Grafonola "Favorite" Questions

[XCaptBill]

BTW, the crank does not have a wooden handle, did this early model just have an all metal crank, or should there have been a wooden knob handle?

Does anyone know of a photo on the net of this model?

[OrthoFan]

BTW, the crank does not have a wooden handle, did this early model just have an all metal crank, or should there have been a wooden knob handle?

Does anyone know of a photo on the net of this model?

I think this is the model you're describing -- early two door Columbia Favorite Grafonola ...


From -- http://www.shenandoahrestoration.com/phonopics.html

Definitely should have a wooden knob on the crank handle.

[XCaptBill]

That's it ;)But mine is just a little different. The door Knobs are wood and the Speed Control is Black, not chrome. Also that sound box is different. On mine the needle bar and diaphragm is covered. I don't see the decal under the lid either?

[Phonofreak]

Sorry gang for being late. I just came back home.From what you told me about the machine, it is an early Favorite 1911 or early 1912. The reproducer sounds like an early Concert Grand. Are there noted stamped in the reproducer cover? The knobs should be wood like you have and the speed control is blued steel, like on a gun. The photo of the machine has the wrong knobs. There are no pot metal parts like the later Columbias. It sounds like you have a nice early Columbia. They sure are handsome machines. Good luck with it.
Harvey Kravitz

[XCaptBill]

Harvey, Thanks for the input. The cover has "Columbia" stamped on it. It sounds like I have an all original machine from the input so far. I was considering refinishing the cabinet as there is a little water damage on the lid and a chip in the veneer. I could clean it up nicely but would I be doing a disservice by not keeping it all original. It would be more attractive with a new finish but would I seriously devalue it if I do?

[Phonofreak]

I would repair the chip and touch it up. Then I would use Howard's restore a finish with 0000 steel wool to clean the water spot. Kotton Klensor will also work for the rest of the cabinet. It's best to keep the original finish.
Harvey Kravitz

[XCaptBill]

I could try that, if it doesn't look good, I can always strip and refinish. I assume the finish is Varnish?