The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi,

I've found a 1919 VV-VI for 225.00. My question is.....it needs the metal piece that the crank goes through, the Exhibition reproducer has broken off of the arm, two of the weights for the governor have come off and one knob on the front of the case is missing.The case itself is in good shape. After all of that should I consider getting it?

Thanks,

Andy

Hi, I think $225 for a complete VV-VI in working condition might be ok, but with the issues you describe it seems high to me. You are talking about $40-60 for parts alone, depending if you buy original or repro. Then you have to fix it and hope that there are no hidden problems, like broken off governor screws, etc. If the case and nickel plating are in good condition I would say that this would be a nice project machine for $100-120 max. For a first machine I would try to get something complete and working, maybe even serviced, so you can enjoy it immediately and learn over time.

JMO
Andreas

My thoughts exactly....thanks for the fast response.

My thought also is to keep looking.

If you buy it for $225, then add $60-100 in parts, plus whatever labor is involved - when finished you will end up with a nice but relatively common machine worth approx. $200...

If you want a relatively inexpensive, but great little machine for just playing 78s, look for a VV-50 in good condition in the $200-$350 range. Mahogany will be cheaper, but an oak one will hold its value and is a good starting place...

Curt A wrote:If you buy it for $225, then add $60-100 in parts, plus whatever labor is involved - when finished you will end up with a nice but relatively common machine worth approx. $200...

And you would be hard pressed to get that $200 for one. They are sweet machines but the supply is huge. If you were somewhere near me I'd make you a deal.

Check with Cliff in Castle Rock; he's on this board and has offered nice machines at very reasonable prices !

Thanks again for all the information. Is "Cliff" his screen name? It would be nice to get an address if possible.

Andy45 wrote:Thanks again for all the information. Is "Cliff" his screen name? It would be nice to get an address if possible.

Cliff's forum name is CDBPDX

Cliff's Vintage Music Shoppe, Castle Rock, WA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIz_IpaVrW8

James.