The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Next week I'll be in San Luis Obispo, CA. I found a Consignment Store in Los Angeles that is selling a Victor P. They are asking $950. I'm interested in it, but don't know what it's worth. Based on the pics and assumption that it functions normally, what would be a good price to pay for this? Thanks - John

My opinion, considering this looks like a nice unmolested original machine with the correct parts that $950 is a fair price.

Larry Crandell

I'm in 100% agreement with Larry. Jerry Blais

Can anyone loan me $950 ?


Bill K

Shouldn't a "Predog" (per the tag) machine have a plain - non-decal - horn? Not a huge deal, but not original to the machine.

Kent in KC wrote:Shouldn't a "Predog" (per the tag) machine have a plain - non-decal - horn? Not a huge deal, but not original to the machine.

If I recall, the "P" machines were intended to be offered as Premiums and were in part made to use up outdated components- there might have been a stock of the old plates still in the warehouse.

A couple of things to check: Some of the Pre-Dog P's had a record hold down, but not all. If you see this machine in person, check the spindle. If you see threads, then it is missing the record hold down. Check the reproducer to see if it has an original back. Sometimes early reproducers have a reproduction back to make it a long throat. Another thing to check on the reproducer is the the needle bar nuts are knurled. The needle bar should have a round hole. If this is an all original machine, the price is very fair.
Harvey Kravitz

estott wrote:

Kent in KC wrote:Shouldn't a "Predog" (per the tag) machine have a plain - non-decal - horn? Not a huge deal, but not original to the machine.

If I recall, the "P" machines were intended to be offered as Premiums and were in part made to use up outdated components- there might have been a stock of the old plates still in the warehouse.

There used to be a "P" in a town near here that I used to deliver packages to a lot and an old gal had a Victor P that her grandfather got from selling flower seeds and magazine subscriptions. He even had a postcard made on the front porch of their house with his Mother the machine and him in it! She said he was very proud of that thing and kept it his whole life. Makes me wonder though if he ever upgraded later on in life.

Larry, Jerry, Kent, estott and Harvey: thank you all for your input - I very much appreciate it - I'll follow up next week with an update

I wouldn't buy it... since the tonearm is on the wrong side.