The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi guys, I just came across a Victrola No. 2 reproducer that looks strange. This one is a brass color underneath the diaphragm, and on the back as well. The "ring" that holds on the gaskets and diaphragm is the normal nickel color. Any ideas if they ever made them this way, or is this the result of someone with a buffing wheel?

Some photos:
https://flic.kr/p/2axVNeA

https://flic.kr/p/2cdwStq

I like it. Looking at the face I would say "who knows". Looking at the back, with the black paint remains and buggered screw heads I would say someone "improved" it.
-bill

That's kind of what I was thinking, thanks. I noticed the remnants of the black paint on the back as well.

The Victrola#2 reproducer had a nickel plated brass bezel ring. The other half was oxidized brass in a black color, not paint. The incised lettering was white. To restore this correctly won't be too hard.
Harvey Kravitz

Thanks for the oxidation info, Harvey. I guess that explains why I never see the "paint" chipped off on these.

- bill

Hey, I always thought the paint on the letters was orange-red. Could be wrong but the Exhibition is the one I see with white lettering.

VanEpsFan1914 wrote:Hey, I always thought the paint on the letters was orange-red. Could be wrong but the Exhibition is the one I see with white lettering.

You are correct sir. And this example has been polished to bare brass.