The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hey there!

I am having a heck of a time identifying my first machine! It would be great to identify it so that I could find a crank for it. Also, I'm just curious. I contacted someone about it and they said it is probably European, but that's all they could give me. There are literally no marks I could find and the top is nailed down by a single nail and I don't really want to risk prying it open.

Thanks a bunch,
Lorne

Unfortunately, there isn't much information on these machines.This one is either German, Swiss, or British manufacture. I noticed on the case, there is a little button. That is the lid latch. You have to press the button in order to open up the cabinet.
Harvey Kravitz

Thanks for the feedback... Were there many unknown manufacturers using the same template for body style? With the same trim? Also, I'm pretty sure the two levers are for increasing or decreasing speed as well as stopping the platter. Unless I am using them wrong?

The soundbox is Swiss, made by Thorens in the 1920s. It would be helpful to open the case to identify a manufacturer's brand on the motor.

Starkton, I figured I would find a number on the motor. Value-wise, is there much difference between these European brands?

Sorry to say, gramophones like yours were mass-produced and don't command much value, regardless of the brand.

I wouldn't worry about the value on this machine. It will clean up very nicely. At least you didn't buy a crap-o-phone. I really like these machines and find them attractive. I have a couple in my collection. I call these my "knock around phonographs. I take them for picnics and traveling, as opposed to a more valuable phonograph. Just enjoy it.
Harvey Kravitz

Welcome to the forum Lorne. Where are you located? There might be a forum member close by who could help you with your machine.

It is a first cousin to mine, which has no clue at all (the Parlophone soundbox isn't original)