The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

An authentic looking machine with one or two interesting features. Any ideas?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/111783498615? ... EBIDX%3AIT

It looks like a Hawthorn & Sheble type.
Harvey Kravitz

Its a Aretino with floating arm. I have one sitting next to me. It also has a spindle to play standard 78's. Mine has the large spindle to accommodate Aretino records. Cheers

Bill K

It certainly is a Hawthorne & Sheble product, and may have started life as an Aretino, with its decal subsequently removed and the entire turntable switched out (Aretinos typically have cast turntables). However, that stamped turntable appears to be the one supplied with the Star No.20, yet there is no Star data plate on the cabinet (are there tiny holes where one used to be?) and the cabinet lacks the little feet on each corner which the No.20 had.

The machine appears to be all-original and unmolested, and considering its present location, it's possible that it was exported in its present configuration.

The tone arm may incorporate a "Yielding Pressure Feed" but I can't tell from the photos.

George P.

Interesting - these machines are like buying a dog "exactly what breed is the dog sir" I read somewhere or someone on the forum said these machines were handed out free with Arentino record purchses. Cheers and a good weekend.

Bill K

Thankyou gentlemen. Someone likes it enough to have opened the bidding, but I am keeping away from the "Bid Now" button until after the forthcoming CLPGS Grand Auction in a few days time.