The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Somehow, I don't think so. But I'm no Victor expert.

http://longisland.craigslist.org/atq/5813921350.html

Not a factory paint job No Decal in the lid. There were some famous artists that painted these machines and they are worth more than a stock machine depending on the artist. If they knew who did the paint job it could make a big difference...It would take a lot of bucks to restore this machine. Tom B

It would take a lot of bucks to restore this machine. Tom B

Do you mean the factory mahogany finish?

In my opinion it's not a Victor painted finish. I believe it's a period correct finish done by one of many small firms in any large metropolitan that would give your talking machine a custom finish. I would do nothing but give it a thorough cleaning and enjoy it. It's a period correct treasure just as it is. Jerry Blais

I think you have to ask when the paint and decorations were applied.

Is a 1965 Shelby Mustang an original Ford Mustang? No, but it was done with Ford approval. Would a current Shelby Mustang owner be wise to replace the Shelby upgrades to make the car factory original? No!

If a different 1965 Mustang buyer took his new Mustang to his local speed shop for similar performance and handling upgrades, would he be driving an original Mustang? No, but the modifications were originally done when the car was essentially a new car. Would the current owner of this car be wise to replace the upgrades back to factory specifications? I would say the answer is still "no" but I would want to confirm the provenance of the upgrades. Would this Mustang have the same value as a Shelby Mustang? I believe the answer is "no" but it would have higher value than a purely stock Mustang. In this example accurate provenance is critical.

In a third example a current owner of a 1965 Mustang takes his car and makes it a "tribute" Shellby Mustang. I have personal bias with this owners efforts. I think it is a waste of time and money to make a fake Shelby Mustang.

I think the painted L door in this thread falls into the second Mustang category that was modified by its original owner. It may not be a factory original Victrola but it's currently in the same condition as the original owner desired.

Respectfully, Jerry Blais

A period job, and a very good one.