The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

First off this isn't a post about whats it worth and can I sell it. We found it in my wife's parents farmhouse and its being treated as a family heirloom, same with the 78s.

https://imgur.com/a/vgdz7ON

Here are some shot of the archaeological dig.

https://www.reddit.com/r/Phonographs/co ... =frontpage

I already got lots of good advice on getting the main machine up to tip top shape. But what about the horn. Its been in a partially collapsed building for the last couple decades and the outside is pretty rusted. Is there any chance of saving it?

Would it be better to get a replacement?

What would the cost of salvaging it run? I'm no artist and repainting it would be way way way way outta my wheelhouse.

Sanding, oiling, and mechanical I can do. Artistry forget about it.


What are your guys' thoughts on the find in general and about restoring the cylinder player.

Also while I'm posting ...the Victrola, if i cannot find the original how hard would a replacement be to find?

Oh almost forgot here

are the cylinders

https://imgur.com/a/bkCajP0

And the 78s

https://imgur.com/a/KSdDqIr

https://imgur.com/a/HPYwPdV

https://imgur.com/a/sEu35Dg

https://imgur.com/a/LxaMvBx

https://imgur.com/a/PAq7pqu

https://imgur.com/a/BYGBZEY

You have a decent looking Edison model B Standard cylinder phonograph that has been upgraded to play both 2 and 4 minute records. You'll find lots of tips here about how to restore it without ruining it. You may also want to find the missing gear cover.

Your horn requires a crane, which I did not see in your photos, but it's probably around somewhere. You may want to get a reproduction "witch's hat" horn which does not require a crane.

You have an interesting variety of records there. "Get 'em in a Rumble Seat" is definitely a goodie.

I'll leave it to others to discuss restoring the horn (or not).

You might be able to save the horn. I've heard good things about Evaporust from some Model T restorers. Using auto body products for patching and filling, you may be able to to restore it yourself. I don't know if it had hand painted flowers or not, but straight black might be nice. What I'm trying to say is that you can hardly ruin it at this point.

The 78s and the Standard Model B look good. Obviously they was put away with great care. Enjoy your re-discovered treasures!

Martin

martinola wrote:You might be able to save the horn. I've heard good things about Evaporust from some Model T restorers. Using auto body products for patching and filling, you may be able to to restore it yourself. I don't know if it had hand painted flowers or not, but straight black might be nice. What I'm trying to say is that you can hardly ruin it at this point.

The 78s and the Standard Model B look good. Obviously they was put away with great care. Enjoy your re-discovered treasures!

Martin

I agree with this If you do not find the crane then the cost to replace the crane will be close to finding a original small horn. You an pick up a repo for about $ 50.00 if you want to go that route. . Look for the parts and think about your options . I repaired a rusty searchlight horn and it was a job but it looks nice now. Tom

A horn crane can be cheaply and easily made out of a portable music lectern and a steel rod of the suitable size.

Regarding restoring the horn, I will definitely try to restore it. Evaporust is great for cleaning and passivate it. A light coat of clear lacquer afterwards will protect it and leave the "as found" condition that leads to very interesting conversations with friends.

What would you suggest to soak it in? a five gallon bucket would be too narrow and a kiddie pool would be too large. What kind of container would work?

There is a gel version of the product. Its not as effective so you will need several attempts.

Best regards

Pedro Martinez

The photograph is of singer Rudy Vallee.