The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

This is the A250 project I have been working on. Got a good deal on this machine about a month ago and wanted to clean it up without refinishing it. Did some wet sanding with 800 grit sandpaper then buffed it out. The grill was busted out so had to get a replacement. The outside of the grill still had some of the original cloth stuck to a few of the nails. It looks to have been a lite green color. Any suggestions on how to make the grill match a little better? Also on restoring the paint on the mahogany horn?

I would try amber shellac on the grille (after it has been stained mahogany). I have found that it gives extra warmth to the color and helps it to match the aged mahogany of the cabinets.

-Connor

If you stain a sample of the wood and apply the amber shellac you will get a good idea how it will turn out. You might find that the sample wood will show that matching the color is more difficult. The amber shellac will also change the color shade so take it slow until you have a pretty good idea how it will turn out. It's a fine machine and well worth the effort. My A250 has given me hours of pleasure playing great music.

Seth,
It's already looking really nice. Take your time on the grille and you'll have a real peach of a machine!
Regards,
Martin