The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just wish I could be half as organized as Rene and George. I can't remember what I paid for half my machines and you have been over here Curt. I don't have many to remember.

Well, as you may have noticed, I enjoy writing... When I was 19, it occurred to me that - despite being a stunning and virile example of American manhood; and with a mind like a steel trap - - the day would probably come when I wouldn't remember the details of a transaction that occurred during the Johnson administration (Lyndon, you jokers - I'm not THAT old!). So I began writing out each story for each talking machine (and sometimes significant records) that I bought. When I was 23, I typed it all up and added to it as necessary. When I was 43, I started typing it on the computer, printing it out, and adding it to the earlier typewritten pages. Everything's single-spaced, but despite that, we're currently at about 140 pages!

And was I ever right about this being an aid to my memory! I'm grateful to that 19 year-old kid...

George P.

Sounds like you're much more organized than me! I originally made an index card for every phonograph I bought and I still have them (1962 to 1966). Later in life I started creating file folders for each machine bought, and sold. The sold ones are marked in red and filed behind the ones still in the collection. These detail all purchase information and any and all related info concerning the specific machine, including (frequently) print-outs of eBay auctions of similar ones for cost reference.

But I have failed to keep any records of the many accessories, records, and other peripherals. I very often have no clue what I paid for an item. I really should be more thorough as the lack of information has come back to bite me more than once.

At least all the machines are fully documented so my family will have some frame of reference to avoid being scammed by someone offering $500 for a Parlor Model Edison Tinfoil..... My daughter would probably consider that very generous because she has no clue (nor does my wife, or she would never had let me buy all these!).

TinfoilPhono wrote:
At least all the machines are fully documented so my family will have some frame of reference to avoid being scammed by someone offering $500 for a Parlor Model Edison Tinfoil..... My daughter would probably consider that very generous because she has no clue (nor does my wife, or she would never had let me buy all these!).

This reminds me of something I often here from my friends who collect guns. Guns are something I know virtually nothing about, except they go boom. But I think this is another fitting place for the expression, with adjustments made for this situation...

"My biggest fear is that some day, my wife will sell all of my phonographs for what I told her I paid for them!"


Aaron

Aaron wrote:

TinfoilPhono wrote:
At least all the machines are fully documented so my family will have some frame of reference to avoid being scammed by someone offering $500 for a Parlor Model Edison Tinfoil..... My daughter would probably consider that very generous because she has no clue (nor does my wife, or she would never had let me buy all these!).

This reminds me of something I often here from my friends who collect guns. Guns are something I know virtually nothing about, except they go boom. But I think this is another fitting place for the expression, with adjustments made for this situation...

"My biggest fear is that some day, my wife will sell all of my phonographs for what I told her I paid for them!" Aaron

It's vital that our families have some knowledge of what these things are, and what they're worth, in case we're quickly taken from the scene. I have an Inventory written up which includes every item of significant value, serial number (if any), description, reproducer/soundbox type, and horn equipment (if appropriate), along with an estimate of value.

I've also typed up an Auctioneer's List of each significant item, with a brief statement that he/she can read verbatim which will accurately name and describe the item, highlighting anything unusual about the particular example. I've heard too many auctioneers botch the descriptions, so I've tried to make it easy for them. I've also included an estimate of what the item should sell for.

Finally, I've typed up instructions for my family as to what to do and what NOT to do in disposing of my collection. This document begins with an apology, because it's my intent to dispose of my collection before I leave this mortal coil. I've outlined various ways to sell, the various pros and cons of each method, and included resources they may want to contact. Barbie and the kids know where these documents are kept.

Hopefully none of this will ever need to be used, but I feel better knowing that those I love won't unexpectedly have an albatross around their necks. ...And that they won't sell it for what they THINK it's worth!

George P.