Edison C-19 value.

[Scott]

I've seen (and heard) this machine on quite a few occassions at one of our local antique malls north of Seattle. $750 was ALWAYS out of the questions and $500 still seems quite expensive. The sound is crisp and clear, the cabinet is in great shape (appears to be original with minor crazing and minimal scrathes). Obviously, it's been well cared for, but what is "reasonable" for this Edison with over 70 DD's included?

As always, thanks for educating me....

Much appreciated,
Scott

http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/atq/4476738036.html

[HisMastersVoice]

I wouldn't think $500 would be out of the question if it were full of records.

[FloridaClay]

Agree. $500 does not seem at all out of line to me for a nice example with 72 Diamond Discs (assuming that they really are Diamond Discs).

Clay

[fran604g]

Scott,

I think $500 is reasonable for this particular C-19, especially since the reproducer is in good condition. There are many posts here at TMF that have discussed the problems related to poor reproducers, motor spring problems, etc. Examine the grille material to see if you can tell if it's original. Have you looked behind the grille? It's easily removed by lifting it up and swinging the bottom out. There may be other "treasures' to be discovered, like the reproducer shipping cradle, 78 record playing adapter, original documentation, etc. Also, if there is any marking label(s) that denote the original dealer, that can add special value to the unit.

I have recently begun a Chippendale C-250/19 data collection project, would you be willing to contribute the machines serial number and other data for my database research, even if you don't purchase it? I would appreciate it if you could do that.

If you haven't seen my post, it is here:

http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... =2&t=16837

Thank you,
Fran

[De Soto Frank]

I would just add that it would be a good idea to examine the machine closely, especially the cabinet, for any loose veneer, loose / missing corner-blocks / decorative blocks, finish quality ( Edison's red-brown mahogany "piano finish" seems to alligator worse than Victor's ( in my experience ).

AND, there's the issue of the selections available in the Edison Diamond Disc catalog... not as varied or up-to-date as Victor / others.


All that said, when in good order, the C-19 is a fine machine and if it's full of 72 Diamond Discs ( or nearly so ), those seem to be hawked for anywhere between $2 and $10 each, so this might be a reasonable price.

About the discs themselves: the early black etched "label" discs have a reputation for high surface noise; the later paper labels have a tendency to fall-off the disc ... check-out the library that comes with the machine - if the majority or at least 50% of the titles / artists seem promising, then I would consider the records as "adding value" to the package. Otherwise, they are just adding weight. (By the way - remove the discs from the record cabinet before trying to move the machine: the weight of a couple-dozen discs can be capable of popping-loose a back or front panel during transit. )

For $500 for a C-19 by itself, I would expect it to be in excellent cosmetic condition, and fully functioning, aside from perhaps needing the usual de-gunking and re-lubrication.

Let us know what you find...

[De Soto Frank]

For what it's worth, here's a C-19 with 72 DD's listed in Duluth, Minn...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/edison-diamond- ... NA:US:3160

[52089]

If you specifically want a C19, you want it now, you want it in good condition, and you want records to go with it, this is probably a fine purchase. If you're not in a rush and/or don't mind putting in a little elbow grease, with just a little patience you'll find one for less on Craigslist.

[Scott]

Scott,

I think $500 is reasonable for this particular C-19, especially since the reproducer is in good condition. There are many posts here at TMF that have discussed the problems related to poor reproducers, motor spring problems, etc. Examine the grille material to see if you can tell if it's original. Have you looked behind the grille? It's easily removed by lifting it up and swinging the bottom out. There may be other "treasures' to be discovered, like the reproducer shipping cradle, 78 record playing adapter, original documentation, etc. Also, if there is any marking label(s) that denote the original dealer, that can add special value to the unit.

I have recently begun a Chippendale C-250/19 data collection project, would you be willing to contribute the machines serial number and other data for my database research, even if you don't purchase it? I would appreciate it if you could do that.

If you haven't seen my post, it is here:

http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... =2&t=16837

Thank you,
Fran

Fran,
I plan on going to the antique store today to have another look. I'll try to remember to get the serial number and any other info for you and the database project.

[Scott]

Thanks to all for the info. $500 seems fair to most of you but I'll try my best to get it for $300 or $350. Seems like the record numbers are as imporatnt as the machine in some cases. I'll let you all know what happens this afternoon.

Thanks again,
Scott

[De Soto Frank]

If you specifically want a C19, you want it now, you want it in good condition, and you want records to go with it, this is probably a fine purchase. If you're not in a rush and/or don't mind putting in a little elbow grease, with just a little patience you'll find one for less on Craigslist.

Well-stated.