The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hey All,

Saw this listed locally and am having a hard time understanding what to make of it.
It surely isn't original, but it looks like pretty good workmanship, no?

Thoughts??

The data plate is stamped VV-VI.

Handyman Special. Creative!

Sean

I've seen these before. This is the standard definition of 'Frakenphone'. Imagine the contents of 20 collectors' parts drawers randomly assembled... in a dark room.

That's a very rare Hermaphrodite-O-phony

Torjazzer wrote:I've seen these before. This is the standard definition of 'Frakenphone'. Imagine the contents of 20 collectors' parts drawers randomly assembled... in a dark room.

not really at all. people use the term "frankenphone" I believe in reference to a machine consisting of a combination of parts that are original themselves, but not as combined when assembled to create the machine (which could include components from various models or even different makers)... as opposed to the "crapophone," which is almost entirely built from reproduction parts. the machine pictured above just seems to be an otherwise original VV-VI with a specially made support substituted for the original back bracket to create a second sound "exit" for the added external horn, which itself looks original.

there were a few machines of the era - just not this one - that originally incorporated both internal and external horns, like for example the Pathé jour et nuit, and if I'm remembering correctly, a prototype edison C-19 or 250. but they're not all that common.

And it's Canadian....Oh the shame!!!

JRT

Reminds me of someone who's got a second head growing out of his shoulder.

Sorry Brianu, I'm voting Frankenphone too. It's not a specially made back braket, it's the usual bracket with an elbow welded to it.

Hmmmmmmm..Well , with VV-VI's as common as they are , I would think that this orphan could be made whole without too much difficulty....and the horn might have some value...but , no doubt the seller has wild dreams of fortune and fame , and wouldn't dream of parting with his treasure anywhere near it's true value....$150?....NO Not $1500!!!!!...$150 ...

Plumber special!

I saw this yesterday. Butchered VV VI augh!