The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Phono-Phan wrote:My thoughts are that the large amount of North American cylinders fueled the bids.

You are correct, sir!

George P.

In response to Peter F's comment that the machine should be left in its present state: I have been to many, many auctions over the years. I've observed that some people will often pay more for an object if they believe it is a "barn find" and has not passed through another collector's hands. Of course most of these people then set about "restoring" whatever it is they bought. Interesting to note that the act of restoration often leads to a lower market value because it is no longer a barn find, which is why the object attracted strong interest in the first place.

jboger, I don’t agree with you thinking that this “attracted strong interest in the first place” because it was a barn find. The interest in this Find was due to it being a Class M machine accompanied by 43 North American Cylinders in their original carrying case. The chances of finding something like this are astronomical for sure. I think the selling price was fair for this wonderful find.

Rich Gordon

Before the images all disappear forever, here they are from the listing for posterity (not including the first in this thread).

Wowser! That is ONE RUST BUCKET of a Class M!

I wonder if the motor windings are still any good?

Did anyone request pictures of what was inside the round container? The seller mentioned some parts but couldn't add more pictures.

The cylinders and the postered display/carrying case are an incredible find. Isn't it very likely that none of the cylinders will be in playable condition?

I think that there are some in there that will clean up nicely and be playable.

This find would make for a wonderful article in an upcoming issue of The Antique Phonograph journal.

Rich Gordon

rgordon939 wrote:I think that there are some in there that will clean up nicely and be playable.

This find would make for a wonderful article in an upcoming issue of The Antique Phonograph journal.

Rich Gordon

I hope some are playable. That would be really great to find out more about where this was found and any more information about it.