The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

That's incredible Scott, thank you so much for sharing with us such a rare combination!

Fran

Thanks Fran. It's never any fun to keep these historical treasures to yourself. One of the best parts of the hobby is to share a collection, knowledge, and resources with the community. Great way to educate others who may one day say, "hey, I know what that is or I have seen this before."

Wow - I love Columbia phonographs and I must say that has to be the rarest of the rare! Congrats and thanks for sharing. Is there a story you could share on how you acquired it - fellow collector, original owner, auction, etc.?

Thanks Kent. I wish I had a compelling story about how i found it in the wild or something more fun. The combination of phonograph and Bettini were two different sources, but was so great to be able have possibly, a unique set-up. I am thrilled with how clean and original the AI and it came with the Simplex shaver. I have 4 Bettini phonographs currently, but would be neat to find a Bettini Gem someday.

How about some pictures of your other Bettinis?

Rene

Here you go:

Bettini Home with Type P reproducer and original horn.

Bettini Standard with Type N reproducer . No horn at the moment.

Bettini (most likely a Pathé) on Eastern Talking Machine Eagle with original cylinder box and reproducer case and reproduction horn.

here are the rest of the pics. Sorry for the order.

Nice Scott, thank you! As impressive as all of them are, I have to admit that my favorite is that Eagle. Stunning all, nonetheless!

Cheers,
Fran

Thanks Fran. I'd have to say my favorite is the AI. it plays great, is electric and looks so cool with all that metal.