Early Victor Monarch Value

[JerryVan]

Looks like good news! I wouldn't be so certain that the motor has been changed. Most motor swaps don't exhibit slight differences, such as one spring instead of two. They usually entail motors from different brands, different eras and different crank locations. I think you "done good".

[Fonotone]

The good news is that the damage under the wood pieces is minimal and I should be able to make repairs. It looks like the crank escutcheon was missing and this was a handyman's remedy. The bad news is that the motor must have been changed out as it is single spring. I found a photo of the motor in Harold Braker's acrticle "Victor-Victrola Motor Identification" and "A different example of a single spring 'spur' motor with an all iron top. For what it's worth, the original photos were dark due to poor lighting and the cabinet is not nearly as dark as what was shown. I couldn't help myself....brought it home anyway. I'll do what I can to restore it as the existing motor fits well and it looks pretty easy to repair. Who knows?? maybe someday the correct motor will show up.

The motor is correct. I suggest that you don't change it out for a 2-spring M motor, or you'll be sorry later. Please see the pic (below) of my Johnson M.

-- Grant

[randymullx]

Wow. That looks identical to mine (just a lot cleaner) Thanks for the photo and advise.

[phonogfp]

Well, this thread has been a learning experience for me too! First the early serial numbering beginning at 100 rather than 500, and now single-mainspring motors in early Monarchs. That's great - - and the 1901 catalog does NOT specify 2 mainsprings as the later catalogs do. I find that especially interesting. Forty dollars for a single-mainspring Victor? That couldn't have lasted long!

I agree with Jerry - "you done good." No significant damage under the clunky wooden "escutcheon" was a real stroke of luck.

Congratulations!

George P.

[Curt A]

Glad you pulled the trigger and took it home... you got a great machine at a bargain price. Congrats...

[VanEpsFan1914]

Beautiful! Now all you need are a few spare parts and you'll have a nice original phonograph all fixed up.

I love the oak grain on the case! This one is going to be a real showpiece.