The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi, I am wondering if there is a way to find out when my Edison Standard Model A was built. Does anyone have any idea where there might be a database with serial numbers? I'm also looking for some clean 2 minute cylinders with half decent content. Any ideas?

Thanks!
Ed.

You've come to the right place. Our resident expert has a good list of serial numbers and their manufacturing dates.

Bill

If you will post the serial number of your Standard, one of our most generous members, George P., will give you a date for your machine. Jerry Blais

Hi, Thank you! The machine is S 151013

Here is a photo. It retains its original green oak finish and the plating, etc, is still very nice! A well cared for machine, I think.

Ed.

Ed, Edison Standard No.151013 left the factory about June 1904.

George P.

Thanks George! I appreciate the information! Do you know anything about the recorder attachments that would work on this model? I've seen some that are notched and others that are not. I suspect I would need a notched one since mine has a notched/tabbed reproducer holder.

Ed

You're correct - a notched Recorder would be appropriate for your Standard.

George P.

Thank you! Now the trick is to locate one...

Jerry B. wrote:If you will post the serial number of your Standard, one of our most generous members, George P., will give you a date for your machine. Jerry Blais

Gosh Jerry - I forgot to thank you for the nice (but undeserved) compliment!

George P.

Edisonh19 wrote:Thank you! Now the trick is to locate one...

You can often find Edison recorders on Ebay: they are usually missing their styli, though.

Eric Reiss describes how to make a passable cutting stylus and holder in The Compleat Talking Machine .

Bill