The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I have been offered the following horn.
It looks pretty rusty!
I'm wondering if I should pass, or what a fair offer would be and how it might clean up (if at all)???
Any comments/thoughts on value greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Gene

In that condition... $50 and a lot of work to restore it.

It can definitely be restored, but it won't be a really valuable horn after doing it... The rust needs to be removed and it needs to be repainted... If you plan to copy the flowered design as original, then it will be a challenge to find someone capable of painting flowers like the Smiths used to do...

If you have a large non-metallic tub, you could do reverse electrolysis on it to remove the rust...

I would stay away from it. After you strip the paint, sand, prime and repaint, it wouldn't be worth that much. With all the hours of work you put in, it will never have a good value. I'd wait until you can get a better example from a Forum member, ebay, or a show.
Harvey Kravitz

That horn has an interesting shape, however the shape will not produce the best audio quality.

it also seems, if anything, like more of a hybrid between a searchlight and a petal horn. I have a couple of search light horns and the've both got perfectly round openings and no petals. I'd post a photo if I had one. but if that horn is solid without any dents, I'd buy it if the price was right (less than a hundred). it has an interesting shape and repainting isn't that difficult (unless you're going for something overly fancy).

It's definitely not a Searchlight horn. Here's a couple: However, as others have pointed out, it's an unusual design. I think it may be the "Tulip" horn offered by the New Jersey Sheet Metal Company, but I don't have time to check right now.) If you can buy the horn reasonably, I'd do it. If properly refinished, the horn will be interesting and a rare form.

George P.

phonogfp wrote:It's definitely not a Searchlight horn. Here's a couple:

searchlight001.jpg

However, as others have pointed out, it's an unusual design. I think it may be the "Tulip" horn offered by the New Jersey Sheet Metal Company, but I don't have time to check right now.) If you can buy the horn reasonably, I'd do it. If properly refinished, the horn will be interesting and a rare form.

George P.

I too believe this is a "Tulip" horn by New Jersey Sheet Metal Co. You would be surprised what can be made to come out with a little wax. In fact, you may be able to retain the interior or make it look much more presentable.
Either way, if priced right....a very rare horn and form.

I'm for buying it ( if you can get a reasonable price) and giving it a shot at repainting.

Because of the rare shape it would make an excellent addition to any collection.
If you choose the buy and repaint route I would spend a little time researching so your choice of paint colours is as close to original as possible.

Let us know how it turns out.

Bruce