The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Although my knowledge is very weak in the "Phonograph" area. I must say you are doing a great job and I think it is looking amazing to say the least. I can't wait to see the final product.

Got the case finished with drawers but I don't like the stain color. I think it should be more like the wooden base it is sitting on.... Comments are much appreciated and thank you.

Steve

Here are some before pictures...

Oak is notoriously hard to stain. I'd try tinting shellac with red mahogany stain and applying a coat or two to warm that color a bit. Otherwise, it looks great. I really love the corner decorations!

George P.

Well, I have to agree with George. Either a touch of red or maybe a little brunt umber. However, if it's not quite to your liking I can provide you with my mailing address and I could learn to live with it.... . You did a wonderful job.

You nicely cleaned the metal parts, but I don't understand why you removed the antique varnish of the case. A professional wood conservator could have easily cleaned it and adapted the repro drawers.

does anyone know what a non working class M would cost requiring large amounts of restoration? i am desperate to get one someday but the chances are i could never afford a working one

you did a good job restoring yours but i also think you should have left the cabinet in the original finish however, i do like the current oak colour and grain

Starkton wrote:You nicely cleaned the metal parts, but I don't understand why you removed the antique varnish of the case. A professional wood conservator could have easily cleaned it and adapted the repro drawers.

Starkton,

I agree with you. Problem I had was that I had someone else repair the case and make the drawers and I did not communicate exactly what I wanted done. Poor communication and a lesson to be learned. At least the Class M didn't have a transfer on the case! May the phono-gods cast me into the land of crapophones!

Steve

Luckily you have informative photos which preserve the original condition. My advice is to attend a very good restorer and instruct him to build up a new varnish closely based on your photo documentation. This procedure is costly but should work well.

I have an original piece of the left side that was broken out. It still has the original finish on it. I don't think I will have a problem matching it. I just finished sanding case down to bare wood with not a tint of stain on it. Base and drawers are next. A great way to spend a Sunday in the Florida sun!