The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I recently became owner of a great project machine, a Columbia BY. The opportunity was passed to me thanks to Roaring20's (James) and delivered to the APS (formerly CAPS) show by Abe F. It's a work in progress that's moving along nicely thanks to some expert veneer repair by Matt and soon to be applied decals purchased from Gregg Cline. Jerry Blais

Here's a photo of the machine stripped and repaired veneer. After I took possession I had several decisions to make. The cabinet needed veneer repair and the corners tightened. Thanks to Matt, that was accomplished. The metal parts were sad and needed re-plating in my opinion. Some people may have left it "as is" but, in my opinion, the back bracket, tone arm, and other bright parts were a detraction. The cabinet had its original decals in marginal shape. In the old days I would have worked around them to avoid poor quality reproduction decals. Todays collectors have the luxury of Gregg Cline decals which look perfect. It was a simple decision to replace the decals. This machine will always be a refinished machine. It will look better with Gregg's outstanding replacements. Jerry

Here's a photo with Constantine's Red Mahogany stain applied. Jerry

Hi Jerry,
What a difference from the before picture!! Excellent job!! Can't wait to see how the re nickeled parts turn out.
Pete

The BY is a beautiful machine. Congratulations, it will be stunning when finished.

Andreas

It is turning out beautifully. I can't wait to see the final product of all your hard work.
Matt

Very Nice Jerry - I can not wait to see it in person when I travel down the coast.

Bruce

Here are some photos with numerous layers of finish coats. The next step are the new decals. The goal is a piano finish. Notice how the light bounces off the finish. It's even more dramatic when using the flash. Jerry

It is going to be really handsome. Hope you will continue to post pics as you go.

Clay

Jerry,

It's looking great! Not everyone can refinish mahogany so that it looks authentic, but you have evidently mastered the art!

George P.