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I believe I have the later (center crank) version of the first style AH. It was sold to me as being all original with the exception of the reproducer. To the best of my knowledge, however, the pierced Columbia with filigree traveling arm was sold only with the later second style AH. I hope George P. can clarify this. The serial number is AH 3502. On the motor plate it actually says AH 3502 (long space) 6. I have always loved this machine and never understood why they are not as collectible or valuable as the similar Victor MS or fancy D machines.

Good luck with your research!
Greg Caringi

Thanks Greg. I agree with you that the pierced traveling arm was originally supplied with the later AH, but that doesn't necessarily mean that your arm isn't original, nor is it impossible that it was replaced when the machine was only a few years old. Judging from the picture (admittedly a perilous proposition!) the arms both look original. Enjoy it.

The "3502" appears on all the later AH motor frames, along with a suffix which I believe is a mold number. You should find the serial number stamped on the cast iron stanchion that supports the spindle.

As for their appeal, I'm a big fan of the AH (I have a very early one and a very late one). The early cabinets (like yours) are especially pretty I think. I don't own an MS nor a fancy D, although they are my favorite rear-mount Victors. Victor motors of the time were quite noisy, and compared to the improved AH motor (like yours), I don't know how Victor sold any! (Alright, alright - I'm sure they were quiet when new... )

Gee, if I keep up like this, there won't be anything left for the article!

George P.

edisonclassm wrote:Those early AH's had tiny serial numbers stamped on the edge of the motor plate. They are often difficult to see.

Well guys, I pulled the complete "motor plate" and motor assembly out of my early AH today --- and found absolutely no indication of a serial number anywhere. I inspected every square inch of the motor plate, motor, wooden case, etc. all to no avail. Somebody please help prove me wrong!!! Any other suggestions??? If this thing has a serial number hiding somewhere, I would love to know what and where it is...

Thanks,
Bob

I tried looking for the serial numbers on my 3 Columbia AH's, and I can't find them anywhere. I looked all over each machine with a fine tooth comb. Did all of these machines have serial numbers? If so, I wonder why they are so elusive. Other machines like Victor, Edison, and off-brand machines have thier serial numbers in obvious places, like a tag or plate. I wonder if Columbia was trying to hide something.
Harvey Kravitz

George,

You have the info from my early AH. Here is a picture. I hope that in some way this helps in your research!

Shawn ORourke

post deleted

Hi George,

Here is some photos of my AH. I think I am missing some part on the start/stop control. Can you tell from the photo what part I need?
The serial number is 53231
Thanks,
Paul

Thanks for your information, Paul.

From your photos, I cannot see a problem with your speed control.

George P.

Interesting. Shawn's early example appears to be a bit earlier still than mine, (mentioned above), as his has a record hold-down and mine, while the same in all other ways, does not.

As we have come to expect, George P. is correct! I found the serial number on the cast iron stanchion that supports the spindle on my first style (later version) AH. It is 69969. There is some question about the 4th number, the second 6, because the number was stamped over a seam in the stanchion. I hope this helps. Thanks.