The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello,
Is it possible to narrow down the year a front mount Vic E was made by the serial number? I have checked the "Victor data Book" and "Look For The Dog" but they give only a range of production from 1901 to 1905. If anyone can help the serial number of my machine is 23075.
thanks
Pete

Well, the SN on my E is 88021, and the sticker on the bottom is dated March 1, 1902.

I assume yours is a 'pre-dog' model as well - most likely from 1901. (Especially if it does not have the 'Rigid Arm' plate on the front…)

Bill

I've always been a little suspicious of the production figures for early E types. The Victor data book does show early numbers as "guesstimates" since the records were destroyed in the factory fire. Sticking my neck out I'd say yours dates from early 1902, especially if it has the early "pinball" type brake, not the round or bullet brake. I have one in the 22000 range with this early brake, the same as found on late B's and on C's. It should also be configured as a front mount only (no "remove this plate"). Given that 1902 is early for an E, I've always thought it a little improbable that Victor produced more than 20,000 of these in only a couple of months assuming introduction very late 1901. Also to my knowledge (others more knowledgeable PLEASE jump in) very low (4 digit) E serial numbers have not been found. I am guessing that Victor continued the serial number series from the C into the E. That would make the dates and numbers more plausible. But that's a complete guess and speculation on my part.

Hi Guys,
Thanks for the information. Here are a couple pictures of my machine. It does have the early pin ball style brake and the horn has a leather elbow not a threaded type.
Pete

That's the same as the set-up I have for serial number 22000's. I think leather elbows disappeared somewhere in the mid/early twenty thousands, although I'm sure many machines were updated way back when, as well as later on. Also the "mix and match" game still goes on today. But I think leather is correct for that number range.