The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Was out checking the antique stores this morning. Came across a Credenza with all the record albums (some showing their age) Cabinet is in fairly decent shape. Man these machines are a beast. Has a $695 Firm tag hanging on it. Previously bought a Viva-Tonal and a Standard Model A from this place for a song and dance.

There is fear in my heart if I make an offer it will be accepted, then convince the wife how joyous an occasion this is, followed by reservations at a homeless shelter. Cheers

Bill K

See if they'll take your wife in trade for the phonograph!

Check to see if it is a two door or a four door. Two doors is rarer. Nice if it was a convertible (just kidding!). Price seems a little high, but probably worth it if is in great condition. Russie

Also check to see if the reproducer is brass. They are going for some good $. Credenzas along with most other upright phonographs have come down a bit but if this one is working and in decent shape then I don't think that is too bad at all.

Is it walnut or mahogany? If it is walnut with tooled leather applique, it's a steal! Is it electric or wind-up? Many prefer wind-up, but with a late model, like a Credenza, I prefer electric, since I like to play lots of records. Many are afraid to buy anything electric that old, but the induction disc motors are bullet proof, and often only need some new wiring, which is easy to replace. Try to play a record to evaluate the reproducer and motor. It is likely to need a rebuild, which is a negotiating point with the seller.

Its a 2 door - I'm going to go back there tomorrow and check this thing out. I believe the reproducer is brass. Cheers


Bill K

7 "Tear-drops" is brass Ortho. Worth ⅔ asking price on machine.

Finding one with all the albums is pretty uncommon.


Good luck !

Went back and gave this machine a closer look. Mah cabinet untouched and no issues. Lid supports do not work. Tried cranking it up but two of us were unable to get the long crank to seat. Was able to lift the motor plate up and saw the two barrel motor. The interior/grille cloth is in good shape.

At any rate woman asked if I would like to make an offer, I declined and said I will once we get to wind up the motor and play a record She took my name and number as the owner is supposed to drop by this weekend and I can speak to him.

Serial number 12424 two door. Cheers

Bill K

Well no call on the Credenza - perhaps I asked too many questions about the machine. No matter what we tried we could not get the crank to hook up, she said it was in place when the machine arrived. The crank is the right length but the end of it, although not mangled in anyway, looked different. Any one have a photo of the threaded end of a Credenza crank? Thanks

Bill K

Here you go. Perhaps try removing the motorboard and try to insert the crank directly instead of fishing it though the escutcheon and cabinet to better see what's happening.