The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

In October 2003, I purchased a Columbia BD at a local auction. It needed repairs and it was missing the trim ring. No problem, I thought. I was in over-my-head. Thanks to my good friend, the late Bob Snyder in Sellersville, PA, the machine was brought back to museum quality. A machinist by trade, Bob replaced the damaged fiber gear with one he machined from brass. It is a good and strong running machine.

I have been looking for a trim ring for over 10 years. Our own Jerry B. contacted me saying that he found one. He remembered my posts. Jerry is a great guy and someone who makes this hobby enjoyable. I easily repaired a loose tab with J-B KwikWeld, polished the ring with Simichrome, and now have a beautiful and complete Columbia BD!

Awesome job!!!! It looks great.
Ken Brekke

Great! And good karma for you, Jerry!

The BD is a nice machine; equivalent to a Victor VI at the time. Yours looks like a very nice example. And my compliments for retaining the original turntable felt!

Congratulations - -

George P.

The original turntable felt! Bob Snyder talked me into leaving it and I am very happy that I did. He always believed that you never replace it unless it is so roached that it would prevent you from playing a record. I can't imagine this machine with bright green billiard felt on it. Lol...

Congratulations! I've remembered seeing those posts for many years and wondered if you ever found the ring! It's so nice to see a machine complete again!

Congratulations to completing a beautiful machine.

Andreas